East Coast Railway Intensifies Safety Measures Ahead of Diwali, Launches Drive Against Illegal Firecracker Transport

Bhubaneswar: As the Diwali festival approaches, the East Coast Railway (ECoR) has ramped up its efforts to ensure passenger safety by launching a special drive targeting the illegal transportation of firecrackers and other inflammable items on trains. ECoR has made it clear that carrying dangerous goods such as firecrackers, gas cylinders, acids, petrol, and kerosene in passenger-carrying trains is a punishable offence under the Railways Act, 1989, which can result in imprisonment of up to three years.

In light of the festive season, East Coast Railway has appealed to passengers to exercise caution and refrain from bringing any inflammable or explosive items during their travels. Co-passengers are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any violations by informing onboard staff, including Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel, Government Railway Police (GRP), Ticket Checking Inspectors (TTEs), coach attendants, or station managers.

To ensure compliance with safety regulations, all three divisions under East Coast Railway—Khurda Road, Sambalpur, and Waltair—have been directed to conduct a Special Safety Drive. This initiative will involve stringent checks and continuous surveillance to prevent the transport of firecrackers and other hazardous materials in passenger and mail/express trains during Diwali.

Passengers are urged to report any sightings of individuals carrying inflammable objects by calling the Railway Help Line Number 139. ECoR’s security teams will conduct random surprise checks to enforce compliance, collaborating closely with the RPF, GRP, and Civil Defence volunteers.

In addition to these security measures, ECoR has initiated a comprehensive awareness campaign through public announcements at railway stations, educating passengers about the dangers of carrying firecrackers. Special teams will focus on ensuring the safe handling of parcels and luggage loaded in parcel vans.

Train Escorting Teams and Meri Saheli Teams will be closely monitoring passengers and luggage for any signs of inflammable items. Moreover, adequate fire extinguishers and firefighting equipment have been strategically placed at stations, goods sheds, guard vans, AC coaches, pantry cars, and locomotives.

East Coast Railway is committed to ensuring the safety of all passengers during this festive season and urges everyone to cooperate by adhering to these safety guidelines.

For more information or to report any incidents, call the Railway Help Line Number 139.