(a) whether the fire-fighting arrangements have been made at all railway stations in the country;
(b) if so, the zone-wise details thereof; and
(c) if not, the steps taken or likely to be taken by the Railways to install such equipments at all railway stations?
MINISTER OF RAILWAYS AND COMMERCE & INDUSTRY
(SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL)
(a) to (c): Yes, Sir. Well equipped fire-fighting arrangements are available at all major railway stations. Following steps are being taken by the Railways for fire-fighting arrangements at Railway stations:
1. Sufficient numbers of fire extinguishers, sand buckets with stands are made available at stations.
2. A schedule of inspection, testing and refilling of fire extinguishers is rigorously followed.
3. The station staff like Station Managers, Station Masters, Porters, Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel are trained in handling of fire extinguishers during initial and refresher trainings.
4. Supervisory officers check the fire safety measures during their scheduled as well as surprise inspections.
5. Fire Safety Audit of stations is conducted as per schedule.
6. Regular mock drills are conducted to assess preparedness in case of a fire accident.
7. Station Managers, RPF posts/Out posts and control rooms keep the updated telephone number of nearby fire stations and their in-charges to contact them in case of need.
8. Fire hydrants hoses with water sources and other fire safety measures are provided based on vulnerability assessed during fire safety audit.
9. A clear access road for the fire tender to reach nearest to the seat of fire is ensured at the station.
10. RPF conducts intensive drives against smoking in railway premises and carriage of inflammable material through rail.
11. Regular checking of health of electrical switches and circuits is done to reduce chances of short circuit.
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