Indian Railways: The truth about washing of blankets and sheets of AC coaches, shocking disclosure from RTI

New Delhi: The bedroll kit given to passengers in AC coaches of Indian Railways, which includes sheets, pillow covers and blankets, is an important part of comfort during long distance travel. But do you know how often these blankets and sheets are washed? Recently, in response to an RTI (Right to Information), the Ministry of Railways revealed that the sheets and pillow covers provided in AC coaches are washed after every use, but woolen blankets are washed only once or maximum twice a month. This revelation has raised concerns about hygiene among passengers.

RTI revealed

In response to an RTI filed by The New Indian Express on 21 October 2024, the Ministry of Railways said that the linen (sheets and pillow covers) given to passengers in AC coaches is sent to the laundry after every journey. In contrast, woollen blankets are washed “at least once a month, and twice if logistics and capacity are available”. Interviews with 20 housekeeping staff working on long-distance trains revealed that blankets are usually washed only if they are stained or smell bad. “We send blankets to the laundry only if they show signs of dirt, wetness or vomit,” said one staff member.

Passengers’ concerns

The information created a stir on social media. “This is scary, it can increase the risk of viral infection,” one passenger wrote on Twitter. “I got chicken pox after travelling in an AC coach,” another shared the experience. Many passengers have now said they bring their own blankets. Despite the railways’ claim that bedroll charges are included in the fare, trains like Garib Rath and Duronto charge for additional bedroll kits.

Railway laundry system

The Indian Railways has 46 departmental laundries and 25 BOOT (Build-Own-Operate-Transfer) laundries. Departmental laundries have machines and land owned by the railways, but the staff may be on contract. BOOT laundries have land owned by the railways, but the equipment and staff are managed by private contractors. The railways provide 3.9 lakh bedroll sets per day, which include two sheets, a towel, pillow and blanket.

Blanket washing history

A CAG (Comptroller and Auditor General) report in 2017 criticised the railways' linen and blanket cleaning system. The report said that in 2015-16, blankets were not washed for 6 to 26 months at some depots. In 2018, the railways ordered washing of blankets twice a month and changed the material to a blend of 60% wool and 15% nylon, increasing the blanket lifespan from 4 to 2 years. However, a 2024 RTI reveals that this target was not fully achieved.

Changes during COVID-19

In March 2020, the railways discontinued the blanket and linen facility due to COVID-19. Passengers were advised to buy disposable bedroll kits, costing Rs 150 to Rs 300. From March 2022, the railways resumed the bedroll service in AC coaches, but questions over hygiene standards remain.

Hygiene tips

For passengers: Bring your own blankets and sheets. Use hand sanitisers and masks.

For railways: Experts suggested replacing woollen blankets with lightweight, easily washable ones. Regular sanitisation and strict monitoring are a must.