SCR launches drive to prevent incidents of fire in trains

Hyderabad, Jan 2 : As a part of this endeavour to prevent fire accidents, the South Central Railway has launched a fortnight-long special drive to ensure that necessary preventive measures are in place at stations and in trains to avoid incidents of fire.

During this drive, emphasis is being given on conducting random/surprise checks by Railway officials in co-ordination with RPF and GRP personnel against the carriage of gas cylinders, stoves, explosive material, petrol/diesel/kerosene/acids, crackers and other inflammable articles in trains. In addition, checks will also be conducted on luggage/parcel material before loading; against passengers or vendors who unauthorisedly cook or make tea etc. by using sigries/stoves; and against smoking in Railway premises.

Stringent action will be initiated against any offender who is found to be carrying inflammable material or smoking in the trains. As per Section 67, 154,164 and 165 of The Railways Act 1989, carrying inflammable and explosive articles on Railways is a punishable offence, which entails a punishment up to 3 years jail or fine up to ` 1000 or both, besides making the offender liable for the loss/injury or damage caused. During the year 2012-13, 452 such checks were conducted and prosecution launched in 37 cases against the offenders. During the period April to November, 2013, 381 checks were conducted and 4 persons have been arrested for flouting the rules in this regard.

Under the current special safety drive, the availability of fire extinguishers in working condition in AC coaches, pantry cars, locos and break vans and their effectiveness will be examined by the Railway personnel. Special focus would be given on fire safety measures in pantry cars like – proper maintenance and upkeep of electrical devices and adequate fire suppression measures in pantry cars etc. Refresher training for Railway staff and the pantry car staff in operating the fire extinguishers will also be conducted.

Apart from the checks as mentioned above, public awareness campaigns are also being launched through print and electronic media and through CCTV and public address systems at stations to sensitize the passengers on the hazards of carrying inflammable articles.

Passengers have been advised that in view of the dangers posed to safety, they should not only desist from carrying inflammable articles or lighting up fire for any purpose in trains, but should also deter others from doing so. In case any passenger notices such occurrence in Railway premises, they may immediately bring it to be notice of the nearest Railway staff or call on 040-27833366. In case of any emergency, passengers are requested to not to panic and use the alarm chain for stopping the train. They may use the emergency windows provided in each of the coaches to come out of the affected coach in case of such need. The location of emergency windows is indicated inside the coach, also painted in red for easy identification. Instructions for opening of emergency windows have also been displayed inside the coaches. INN