Cell Description
Comparing to section 240, cells are bigger in 209. They typically have two windows, and they also have a small opening in the door, which allows more light and fresh air in. Prisoners still sleep on the ground, but they sometimes have more blankets and also there are heaters in the cells.
Some places even offer a TV set, a rubbish bin, or other things to make living more pleasant for the prisoners. Contrasting to 240, you won't find toilets on the rooms. Prisoners have to push the bell and guard will escort them to toilet, one by one.
Activities in 209
Since you share a cell with other prisoner, or even more prisoners, you have a chance to engage in various activities. Telling stories, playing some simple games (once we even managed to make a chess board and chess figures, with the help of dates and sugar cubes, and tooth paste). You are also allowed to walk in the ward three times a week, and always for at least twenty minutes, so there's at least some space to exercise and breath fresh air.
In an exceptional cases, guards may even lend you some books, but you should not expect them to be in English....
Food and Hygiene in 209
Food is much better than in 240. You will enjoy better rations, and since the movement is minimal, it's easy to put on weight during your detention. This time they won't let the food to rot or get cold, so you can finally enjoy some warm meals.
Breakfast are typically doubled, and, if you cry or feel depressed, some guards may give you two dinners. Local prisoners have a chance to call home, but international prisoners are not allowed to make any phone calls. Access to information and contact with the outside world is still pretty limited.
You are allowed to take a shower twice a week, and they sometimes change your prison shirt. Sinks in certain cells are big enough to clean both your hair and clothes, if you prefer to do so. 209 is a difficult experience, and the guards are still tough, but compared to 240 it feels like a big improvement.
Progress in your case, safer place
I witnessed torture in both 240 and 209, but what they did in 209 can't be compared to drastic practices of physical and mental torture commonly applied in 240. Moving here means a certain progress in your case. They no longer consider you extremely dangerous, and they tend to treat you better here. Try to play by the rules, listen to the guards and be strong--better times await just around the corner....
Next: Section 350 of Evin prison