The common practice of having only 2 general (unreserved) compartments in Indian express trains is largely due to coach composition policies set by Indian Railways, prioritization of reserved (sleeper and AC) classes, and operational constraints such as platform lengths and overall train length. However, this has led to regular complaints about overcrowding and inconvenience, especially for those who can only afford general class or must travel at short notice.
Why Are There Only 2 General Compartments?
Most express trains traditionally have a minimum of two general (unreserved/GS) coaches: one near the engine and one at the end of the train.
The rationale often cited by authorities is limited platform length, the need to balance reserved and unreserved accommodation, and sometimes a preference for revenue from higher classes which can be reserved and priced higher.
Indian Railways periodically alters the number of general coaches based on demand, crowd levels, and operational priorities. For example, in 2025, Southern Railway reduced general compartments in some trains to add more AC coaches due to operational or revenue priorities, sparking passenger outcry.
Overcrowding and inconvenience have led to protests and calls for more general coaches, resulting in Indian Railways recently beginning to increase the number to four in many mail and express trains in response to public demand and viral complaints of overcrowding. As of June–July 2024, an official plan is underway to double general compartments in such trains from two to four wherever possible.
Legal and Policy Context
There isn't a fixed law mandating a set number of general coaches per train that grants passengers a legal right to a specific number—coach composition is at the railways' executive discretion.
Policy guidelines (not codified law) primarily set minimum norms and allow for modification depending on traffic demand, operational feasibility, and financial considerations. These can be found in the official Compendium of Instructions and specific Railway Board circulars (such as the 2009 and later policies).
The policy as of recent years recommends a typical composition (for a 22-coach train) of 12 non-AC sleeper/general class coaches and 8 AC coaches, aiming to cater to "greater accommodation for the passengers using General and non-AC Sleeper Coaches". However, "General" coaches specifically might still only be two or more, as "non-AC" includes sleeper class as well.
Legal remedy for overcrowding is limited; affected passengers can approach consumer forums or courts only in exceptional cases, such as injury due to severe overcrowding or mishandling, but there’s no specific legal right to a minimum number of coaches.
Change in Policy (2024–2025)
Due to heavy criticism and social media pressure, Indian Railways recently decided to double general coaches in trains running with only two, adding up to 2,500 new general coaches to the network within the 2024–25 financial year. Key trains saw 92 general coaches added in July 2024, and the plan is ongoing.
The measure is meant to address structural injustice and meet the real needs of ordinary passengers who rely on affordable, unreserved rail travel.
Injustice Argument
The low number of general class coaches is widely regarded as unfair because it disproportionately affects economically weaker sections who depend on low-cost travel and cannot book reserved tickets in advance.
Advocacy and media pressure are bringing positive changes, but this space is shaped by policy (which can be protested and changed) rather than enforceable statutory law.
Overall, while the limited number of general coaches has caused real hardship, reforms are underway—but are a matter of policy, not formal legal right. Advocacy, public complaints, and campaign pressure have proved effective in initiating positive change.
