Indian Railways middle berth rules: has introduced several measures to simplify the ticket booking process and make it more passenger-friendly. The national transporter also reduced the Advance Reservation Period (ARP) for booking reserved train tickets from 120 days to 60 days, excluding the date of journey.
However, many passengers still face challenges when selecting their preferred berths during online or offline booking. The passengers mostly preferred to book lower berth, but tickets are often allotted as side upper, middle, or upper berths depending on availability.
Thus, it is important for passengers to be aware of the latest guidelines of Indian Railways on middle berth, if they are allotted one during reservation.
According to Indian Railways, the middle berth must remain folded during the day so that passengers on the lower berth can sit comfortably. As per Railway Board Commercial Circular No. 60 of 2017, sleeping hours in reserved coaches are from 22:00 hrs to 06:00 hrs, while seating accommodation is to be used during the remaining time.
However, in case of any dispute over timing, the TTE has the authority to enforce the official rules. The circular also advises passengers to cooperate with those in need, such as the sick, persons with disabilities and pregnant ladies, if they want to sleep beyond permissible time limits.
“During the day time, sitting accommodation is also provided for those booked on the upper berth,” the circular reads.
