A passenger on an Indian railway air-conditioned coach performed a religious puja using incense sticks and an oil lamp on an upper berth [1, 2].
The incident highlights the tension between personal religious practices and stringent safety protocols in enclosed public transport. Because AC coaches are sealed environments with flammable materials, the use of open flames presents a significant risk to hundreds of passengers.
According to reports, the unnamed traveler lit a diya, a small oil lamp, and incense sticks while situated on the upper berth of the carriage [1, 2]. The act was captured in a video that has since circulated on social media, prompting a wider debate over passenger conduct and railway safety [2].
Railway safety guidelines generally prohibit the use of open flames or combustible materials inside coaches to prevent accidental fires. The placement of the lamp on the upper berth is particularly concerning due to the proximity of ceiling panels and upholstery, materials that can ignite quickly.
Other passengers in the coach flagged the risk, noting that such actions jeopardize the safety of everyone on board [1]. The video shows the passenger continuing the ritual despite the confined space and the potential for the flame to tip or spark [2].
Indian Railways has historically emphasized the importance of following safety norms to avoid mishaps. While the specific identity of the passenger has not been released, the footage serves as a reminder of the dangers associated with ignoring fire safety rules in transit.
“The use of open flames presents a significant risk to hundreds of passengers.”
This incident underscores a recurring challenge for Indian Railways in balancing cultural practices with modern safety standards. The viral nature of the clip suggests a public demand for stricter enforcement of safety codes, as the risk of fire in a high-density, air-conditioned environment could lead to catastrophic casualties.
