Mumbai, June 4: In a major move to strengthen passenger safety, the Railway Board has launched a 15-day nationwide inspection drive to identify and rectify fire safety lapses in pantry cars.
The special campaign, which began on June 2, will see joint teams from the Commercial, Mechanical and Electrical departments conducting detailed checks of pantry cars across all zonal railways.
The decision follows a recent fire safety review that uncovered several serious violations in pantry car operations.
Safety violations flagged
According to a Railway Board circular, inspectors found instances of unauthorised tampering with heating coils, use of higher-capacity coils in place of approved equipment, aluminium foil being placed beneath heaters, smoke detectors being covered, and unsafe electrical wiring.
In some cases, Fire Detection and Suppression System (FDSS) panels were found blocked by cartons, water bottles and other materials, reducing their effectiveness during emergencies.
Railway officials said such practices pose a significant fire risk and could hamper firefighting efforts in the event of an accident. The Board has directed inspection teams to thoroughly examine all pantry cars and ensure immediate corrective action wherever deficiencies are found.
Report sought by June 20
Strict disciplinary action has also been ordered against individuals responsible for violating safety norms.
The inspection drive comes as Indian Railways continues to upgrade safety systems across its network. Fire Detection and Suppression Systems have already been installed in pantry cars and power cars on several trains.
Also Watch:
However, officials stressed that technology alone cannot prevent accidents unless safety procedures are followed rigorously. A comprehensive report on the findings of the special drive has been sought by the Railway Board by June 20.
To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
