New Delhi: A video from the AC coach of a moving train has gone viral on social media, triggering a debate over passenger safety. The footage shows a passenger performing a puja while seated on the upper berth, with a lit oil lamp and burning incense sticks placed in front of him. As the train continues its journey, smoke can be seen spreading inside the enclosed coach. Concerned passengers nearby reportedly asked him to put out the flame, citing safety risks. The incident has since raised fresh concerns about railway safety and the use of open flames inside train coaches.
Is the incident seen in the video worrying the passengers?
In the viral clip, it can be clearly seen that the passenger is busy with religious rituals and an open flame is burning in front of him. The lamp continues to burn despite the movement of the train. Meanwhile, some co-passengers explain to him that it is not safe to light a fire like this in a moving train. The people present in the video are also heard expressing fear of a possible accident.
Can smoke in an AC coach activate the alarm system?
Railway safety experts say that smoke detectors are installed in AC coaches, whose purpose is to activate the alarm as soon as smoke spreads. The smoke coming out of incense sticks or lamps can also activate these sensors at times. In such a situation, the train staff has to investigate immediately, and unnecessary panic can spread among the passengers.
Can a small carelessness cause a major accident?
Experts say that in the AC coaches of trains, there are bedrolls, seat covers, curtains, and many other items which can catch fire. If the lamp falls due to a sudden shock or the flame reaches any object, it will not take much time for the fire to spread. This is why Railways advises avoiding any kind of open fire during the journey.
Do railway rules permit such activity?
The safety rules of the railways have been made keeping in mind the safety of both passengers and the train. Any work inside the train which may cause fire or endanger the lives of other passengers is not considered in accordance with the rules. Security agencies have also been appealing to passengers from time to time not to use flammable items during travel and to immediately report any suspicious activity to the railway staff.
Did different opinions emerge regarding this incident on social media also?
After the video surfaced, debate on this issue started on the internet. Some people called it a matter related to faith, while a large number of users said that following safety rules in public transport is more important than religious activities. Many people wrote that personal belief has its place, but there should not be any activity that could jeopardise the safety of hundreds of passengers.
