HYDERABAD, NOV 21 : In a bid to ensure the safety of passengers, South Central Railway (SCR) has initiated a thorough examination of trains to detect and prevent the carriage of inflammable items.

The railway zone is also taking measures to deter passengers from engaging in fire-related activities while on board.

According to a statement released by SCR on Tuesday, the fire safety drive, which commenced on November 17, will continue until January 1.

During this period, the railway zone will conduct extensive checks on trains and railway stations to identify and eliminate the transportation of inflammable items. Awareness campaigns are underway to educate the public and rail users about the potential consequences of engaging in fire-related activities within railway premises.

SCR has launched the drive with the active involvement of staff from the Railway Protection Force and Commercial Branches. Their role is to conduct checks, prevent, and caution passengers against practices that could compromise safety.

Passengers are strongly advised to refrain from activities such as lighting incense sticks, burning camphor, or carrying inflammables, as these actions pose a significant risk of fire hazards. Any form of fire on trains or other railway premises is strictly prohibited.

As part of the awareness programs, regular public announcements are being made at railway stations. Additionally, audio and video clips are displayed on screens at stations, emphasizing the prohibition of carrying inflammables.

The railway authorities are leveraging social media, print and electronic media, press releases, and designed tweets to extensively publicize the initiative.

According to Sections 67, 164, and 165 of the Railway Act 1989, carrying flammable and explosive articles on railways constitutes a punishable offense. Violators may face penalties of up to Rs 1,000 or imprisonment for up to three years, or both, along with responsibility for any loss, injury, or damage caused.

Arun Kumar Jain, General Manager of South Central Railway, has appealed to rail users to cooperate with the railways by avoiding the carriage of inflammable materials during travel. He also advised passengers against engaging in activities such as lighting fires or lamps in train coaches and cautioned against violating smoking rules at railway premises.(UNI)