Indian Railways has decided to carry out a comprehensive fire safety audit across all railway stations in the country. This move comes after several fire incidents reported at trains and stations in recent months. The goal is to strengthen the security of passengers and protect railway properties from fire hazards.
What will be checked during the fire safety audit?
The audit will focus on critical safety infrastructure to identify potential risks. Joint teams consisting of officials from the Civil, Electrical, Signal, and Security departments will conduct the inspections. They will review the following systems:
- Electrical systems and AC plants
- Emergency exit doors and ventilation systems
- Firefighting equipment and sprinkler systems
- Water availability and pumping systems
Which stations are covered and who is monitoring it?
The nationwide audit is scheduled between June 10 and June 13, 2026. Approximately 7,500 stations, including Muzaffarpur, will be covered under this drive. In the North Eastern Railway, strict checks have started at around 20 major stations including Gorakhpur, Lucknow, Varanasi, Chhapra, and Mau Junction. Railway Board Chairman Satish Kumar has already written to all Zonal General Managers to ensure the audit is completed. The ministry may also take help from state fire departments and expert agencies for technical accuracy.
Guidelines for passengers during this safety drive
The railway administration has advised passengers to follow strict fire safety rules. People are requested not to carry any flammable materials in trains or stations. If any passenger notices a suspicious object or a spark, they should immediately inform the railway staff or security personnel on duty. Any deficiencies found during the audit will be fixed on a priority basis to ensure a fear-free travel experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many railway stations will undergo the fire safety audit?
A total of 7,500 railway stations across the country, including major hubs like Muzaffarpur and Gorakhpur, will be audited.
When is the nationwide fire safety audit scheduled?
The Ministry of Railways announced that the countrywide audit will take place between June 10 and June 13, 2026.