As per corporate safety plan (2003-2013) it was targeted to reduce fire accidents on the trains from 14 to 3 by the year 2012-13. In the year 2012-13, 9 fire accidents took place on trains. Thus, there has been a reduction of 35% in the fire accidents on trains over the same period(2003-13). This declining trend is continuing in the current year & till 31.01.2016 there has not been a single case of fire accident on train.

Followings steps are being taken on Indian Railways to prevent fire accident in trains:-

Ø  Indian Railways have always endeavoured to enhance fire worthiness of coaches by using fire retardant furnishing materials to mitigate effect of fire. Specifications for such furnishing materials have been periodically reviewed to incorporate fire retardant parameters in line with UIC (International Union of Railways) and other international norms. All new manufacture of coaches/periodical overhauling of existing coaches is being carried out with fire retardant specifications of the furnishing materials wherever condition based replacements are warranted.

Ø  Fire extinguishers are being provided in all Air-conditioned coaches, Second class-cum-guard and luggage vans, Pantry cars and train locomotives.

Ø  Improved materials for electrical fittings and fixtures such as MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker), light fittings, terminal boards, connectors etc., are being used progressively.

Ø  A pilot project for provision of Comprehensive Fire and Smoke Detection System has been taken up in one rake of New Delhi-Bhubaneswar Rajdhani Express on East Coast Railway. Besides, one LHB (Linke Hofmann Busch) rake in New Delhi-Jammu Tawi Rajdhani train and one AC Double Decker rake running between Kachiguda-Tirupati/Guntur have also been provided with such a system. Based on the feedback from initial trails, Board has sanctioned for extended field trails in 2750 coaches.

Ø  Water mist type fire suppression system is being provided on power cars in phased manner.

Ø  Detailed instructions have been issued to zonal railways for observance of safe practices in handling of pantry cars and for ensuring periodical inspection of electrical and LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) fittings in the pantry cars.

Ø  Intensive publicity campaigns to prevent the travelling public from carrying inflammable goods are regularly undertaken.

Ø  Frequent drives against carrying of inflammable/dangerous articles in trains as well as station premises are undertaken.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha on 02.03.2016 (Wednesday).

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AKS/MKV/MN/DK