Indian Railways has reported the theft of more than 1.27 crore bedroll items between January 2022 and May 2026, highlighting a significant operational challenge for the country’s largest public transport network. The missing items include blankets, bedsheets, pillows and towels supplied to passengers travelling in air-conditioned coaches.
The large-scale theft has resulted in substantial financial losses while also affecting the availability of clean linen for passengers. Railway authorities have been working to replenish stocks regularly, but recurring thefts continue to place additional pressure on maintenance and operating costs.
Railway Ministry Orders Stronger Preventive Measures
Taking serious note of the issue, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has directed officials to strengthen measures aimed at preventing linen theft across AC coaches. Railway authorities are exploring stricter monitoring mechanisms, improved inventory management and greater passenger awareness to reduce the loss of railway property.
Officials are also expected to review existing security protocols and identify vulnerable routes where incidents of linen theft are more frequent. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to improve passenger services while reducing unnecessary expenditure caused by theft and misuse of railway assets.
Protecting Public Property Remains a Shared Responsibility
Indian Railways provides millions of passengers with linen services every year as part of its long-distance travel experience. Authorities have reiterated that railway property belongs to the public and urged passengers to cooperate by ensuring that blankets, bedsheets, pillows and towels remain on board after their journey.
Reducing such losses will not only help improve passenger comfort but also enable Indian Railways to optimise resources and maintain better service standards across its expanding rail network.