Rly police to crack down on fireworks on trains

CHENNAI: The government railway police (GRP) and railway protection force (RPF) have formed special squads to nab people carrying fireworks in trains. Although firecrackers are banned on trains, police personnel say that many passengers carry them during Diwali.
If anyone is discovered carrying firecrackers in trains, the offender is punishable by law with up to six months imprisonment or Rs1,000 fine or both, as per Section 285 of the Indian Penal Code.Police said carrying firecrackers in trains is also punishable under Section 164 of the Indian Railway Act.
Efforts have been taken to conduct awareness programmes among rail passengers regarding the prohibition on carrying firecrackers. Police teams along with RPF are creating awareness through posters, handbills and the public address system warning passengers against carrying inflammable material like firecrackers.
Six special teams have been formed, each with one inspector and two other police personnel, to check trains for firecrackers. Passengers can contact the 24x7 GRP helpline (1512) over security issues, including co-passengers carrying fireworks, and the nearest policemen available will be directed to attend to the complaint immediately, officials said. TNN