Ahead of Diwali, the markets have once again become vibrant. People are busy preparing to celebrate this festival of lights and lamps. Shopping is also rampant in the markets. Besides sweets and lamps, firecrackers are in high demand. Everyone is leaving no stone unturned in celebrating the festival with their families.
A large number of people travel home during festivals, and trains are a convenient mode of transport for most. Diwali is the occasion, and in addition to sweets and lamps, people are also considering bringing purchased firecrackers and sparklers home by train. If you are planning to travel with firecrackers or sparklers along with your luggage, you should be aware of the railway rules.
What do the railway rules say?
According to railway rules, several items are prohibited from traveling on trains. These items are categorized as firecrackers, rockets, crackers, and sparklers. These items are explosive and dangerous, capable of causing casualties at any time. According to Indian Railway rules, no passenger may travel with such items on trains.
Strict monitoring by railways, punishment for those caught
The Railways are very strict about prohibited items. Consequently, security forces conduct surprise inspections on trains from time to time. Especially during Diwali and New Year’s, the Railway Security Department strictly enforces these rules to prevent any incidents. However, if a passenger is found carrying such prohibited items during inspections, strict action is taken against them as per the regulations.
Up to 3 years in prison
Under Section 164 of the Railway Act, a passenger can be fined ₹1,000, imprisoned for three years, or both. Since firecrackers are prohibited items, passengers found carrying them on a train are liable for punishment. Furthermore, they can also be held responsible for any loss, injury, or damage caused by carrying these items.
