Rail Budget 2014-15: Induction stoves to replace LPG in pantries

Railways Minister Mallikarjun Kharge today presented the budget for the first four months of the 2014-15 fiscal year that begins in April. In the interim Railway Budget, he announced a number of measures to prevent fire-related incidents. The issue of fire safety has come into sharp focus because of the rising number of mishaps in trains across the country.

Mr Kharge said electrical induction-based cooking appliances would be introduced in pantries in place of LPG.

A fire and smoke detection system is on trial on two rakes of Rajdhani Express trains. Based on the success of these trials, the new system could be extended to all major passenger trains.

The interim Railway Budget also said that a number of measures have been initiated to prevent fire-related incidents. These include use of fire retardant materials inside coaching vehicles, multi-tier protection for electric circuits and provision of portable fire extinguishers in AC coaches, guard-cum-luggage break vans, pantry cars and locomotives.