Passenger stuck 24 hours without water on overcrowded train; viral video sparks outrage at India’s rail ‘comfort’ claims

Passenger says he’s been stuck for 24 hours without water or movement; internet calls it ‘seat arrest’ and questions railway claims of comfort

A disturbing video from Lucknow’s Charbagh railway station has gone viral, exposing the grim reality of train travel for thousands of passengers who rely on India’s long-distance rail network. The clip, showing a severely overcrowded Avadh Assam Express, has reignited debate over railway infrastructure, safety, and the government’s claims of improving commuter comfort.

The footage, shared by a digital news reporter, shows passengers crammed shoulder to shoulder, with barely space to breathe. One passenger, seated by the window, said he has been on board for over 24 hours, unable to move, drink water, or even access the washroom.

Onboard Awadh Assam Express, a passanger tells @ashharasrar at Lucknow's Charbagh that he has been sitting in this overcrowded coach for 24 hours now. Hasn't been to the washroom since. "I fear drinking water." pic.twitter.com/7BF5z19uZX

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— Piyush Rai (@Benarasiyaa) October 24, 2025

When told that authorities claim passengers now travel “comfortably,” the man responded with bitter irony: “This is comfort only.”

Passengers speak, internet reacts

The video has racked up more than 30,000 views within hours of being posted on X (formerly Twitter), with users expressing anger, disbelief, and empathy.

“12,000 ‘special’ trains, zero dignity for passengers. People are dehydrating out of fear—welcome aboard Amrit Kaal Express,” one user wrote sarcastically, criticising the government’s infrastructure promises.

Another viewer called the situation “seat arrest,” referencing the man’s inability to move for an entire day. Others described feeling claustrophobic just watching the video.

The train behind the chaos

The Avadh Assam Express (15909/15910) is operated by the Northeast Frontier Railway Zone. It runs between Dibrugarh in Assam and Lalgarh Junction in Rajasthan, covering one of India’s longest and most crowded routes. Because of its vast reach, delays and overcrowding are frequent—especially in unreserved coaches that often carry double their capacity.

Anger and reflection online

The video has also triggered broader discussions about migration, infrastructure, and dignity in travel.

“Thousands travel thousands of kilometres from home for work because they can’t find jobs in their home states,” one user wrote. “How can anyone sit for 24 hours without water or using a washroom? No words.”

Others pointed out that the issue goes beyond railways. “Adding more trains won’t fix this,” another post read. “The government must ensure balanced industrial growth so people aren’t forced to migrate for survival.”

Some called for accountability, urging the government to treat train overloading as a safety offence. “An FIR should be filed,” one user said, adding that officials who allow such conditions are risking lives.

A problem as old as the railways

Several commenters noted that the plight of passengers in unreserved coaches is hardly new. “This is how Indian Railways has always been for the poor,” wrote one user. “Those without reserved seats have struggled forever to travel with dignity.”

A few suggested learning from other nations with high passenger volumes. “Mass migration is a reality,” one user said. “India could learn from how China manages the world’s largest annual travel surge during its Lunar New Year.”