Eastern Railway has intensified its campaign against smoking on trains and railway premises, warning that violators will face strict action under the Railways Act, 1989, including fines of up to ₹2,000, removal from the compartment and other legal consequences.
The railway administration said smoking inside trains and railway premises poses a serious fire hazard and endangers the safety of passengers. A single spark in the enclosed environment of a moving train can potentially lead to a major fire, putting hundreds of lives at risk.
As part of its safety initiative, Eastern Railway has strengthened surveillance and enforcement measures across its network under the leadership of General Manager Milind Deouskar. The measures include the installation of automated smoke detectors in train toilets and coaches, expansion of CCTV surveillance at stations and railway premises, and enhanced patrolling by the Railway Protection Force (RPF) to detect and prevent violations.
According to Eastern Railway, Section 167 of the Railways Act, 1989, prohibits smoking in trains and railway premises. Offenders are liable to a fine of up to ₹2,000 and may also be removed from the compartment, with the possibility of forfeiture of their travel ticket or pass as provided under the Act.
Appealing to passengers to cooperate, Chief Public Relations Officer Shibram Majhi said ensuring safety during train journeys is a shared responsibility. He urged passengers to refrain from smoking on trains or railway premises, stating that the railway administration would continue to enforce the law strictly to protect passengers and prevent fire-related incidents.
Eastern Railway reiterated that maintaining a smoke-free environment is essential for passenger safety and called upon travellers to comply with railway regulations to ensure safe and uninterrupted journeys for all.
