Followings
steps are being taken on Indian Railways to prevent fire accident in trains:-
·
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.
·
Fire
extinguishers are being provided in all Air-conditioned coaches, Second
class-cum-guard and luggage vans, Pantry cars and train locomotives. Portable
fire extinguishers were provided in 100 Non-AC passenger coaches on trial.
·
Improved
materials for electrical fittings and fixtures such as MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker),
light fittings, terminal boards, connectors etc., are being used progressively.
·
Railways
are providing 3 tier and 4 tier electrical fuse protection system in train
lighting and air-conditioned coaches respectively.
·
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 trials in 2750 coaches.
·
Water
mist type fire suppression system is being provided on power cars in a phased
manner.
·
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.
·
Intensive
publicity campaigns to prevent the travelling public from carrying inflammable
goods are regularly undertaken.
·
Frequent
drives against carrying of inflammable/dangerous articles in trains as well as
station premises are undertaken.
This Press Release is based on information given by
the Minister of State for Railways Shri Manoj Sinha in a written reply to a
question in Rajya Sabha on 06.05.2016 (Friday).
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AKS/MKV/AK/DK