The Hidden Design: Why Indian Railways AC Coach Berths Have an Extra Rexine Flap

For seasoned commuters on Indian Railways, the blue rexine berths of an AC coach are a familiar sight. Yet, a small design detail has recently sparked a wave of curiosity online: the partially stitched extra layer of material found on the side of the seats. While many passengers dismiss it as a manufacturing quirk or a wear-and-tear protector, this “extra flap” actually serves a specific, functional purpose for overnight travelers.

The conversation gained momentum after a passenger shared a photo on the popular Reddit forum r/indianrailways, questioning the utility of the loose rexine layer. The post quickly went viral, revealing that a significant number of travelers, even frequent ones, were unaware of its intended use.

The Mystery of the Built-in Sheet Holder

In AC 2-tier and 3-tier coaches, the Railways provide a bedding kit consisting of two bed sheets, a pillow, and a blanket. The challenge for most passengers is keeping the bottom sheet from sliding off the slippery rexine surface as the train jolts and sways through the night.

This is where the extra flap comes into play. It is specifically designed as a built-in bed sheet holder. By tucking the edges of the bed sheet into the gap between the main berth and this additional layer, passengers can “lock” their bedding in place. This prevents the sheets from bunching up or falling onto the floor when a passenger shifts positions during sleep.

Small Detail, Big Comfort

The design is a testament to the practical ergonomics required for long-distance public transport. While modern LHB (Linke Hofmann Busch) coaches have introduced various comfort upgrades, this simple flap remains one of the most effective low-tech solutions for passenger convenience.

Social media reactions to the revelation were a mix of surprise and self-deprecation. “I’ve been traveling for 20 years and always wondered why my sheet ended up in a ball by 4:00 AM,” one user commented. Others noted that once the sheet is tucked in properly, the berth mimics the tucked-in feel of a hotel bed, providing a much more stable and hygienic sleeping surface.

The next time you board an overnight express and lay out your linen, remember to utilize that “extra” layer. It might just be the secret to a more restful journey across the tracks.