Do not get into a train carrying firecrackers. Personnel of the railway protection force (RPF) have arrested 25 commuters over the past two weeks for doing so.
RPF has been creating awareness of the dangers carrying firecrackers in trains over the past few weeks. It has simultaneously been cracking down on those transporting firecrackers.
“Last year we arrested six persons. This year, the checks have intensified,” said a senior RPF officer.
Most of the arrests were made on suburban and express trains. “Despite us advising commuters against carrying firecrackers, many continue to do so,” the officer said.
On Monday, RPF conducted a two-hour awareness programme on the issue at Chennai Central railway station.
“We used dogs to sniff out firecrackers and educated passengers on the risks involved. A short skit was also staged,” the officer said.
