The Minister of Railways Shri Pawan Kumar Bansal has announced several measures to prevent and control fire. Presenting the Railway Budget for 2013-14 in Parliament today he said, accident caused due to fire, even though very infrequent, have been a major cause for concern. Some of the measures taken include:

i. Provision of Comprehensive Fire and Smoke Detection System on pilot basis;

ii. Provision of portable fire extinguishers in Guard-cum-Brake Vans, AC Coaches and Pantry Cars in all trains;

iii. Enhanced use of fire retardant furnishing materials in coaches;

iv. Social awareness campaigns for observance of safe practices.

MKP/AD/DB

(Release ID :92494)

Fire prevention measures expand detection systems and mandate portable extinguishers to strengthen onboard safety practices. Targeted fire prevention measures establish a layered approach to onboard safety: pilot deployment of a Comprehensive Fire and Smoke Detection System; mandatory provision of portable fire extinguishers in Guard-cum-Brake Vans, AC Coaches and Pantry Cars; enhanced use of fire retardant furnishing materials in coaches; and social awareness campaigns promoting safe practices.