Viral video shows man lighting diya inside moving train, sparks fire safety concerns; watch

A viral video showing a passenger performing religious rituals with an open flame inside an air-conditioned coach of a moving train has sparked widespread concern over passenger safety. The clip shows a man, reportedly seated on the upper berth, lighting an oil lamp (diya) and incense sticks (agarbatti) while praying inside the coach.

As smoke spread through the compartment, another passenger intervened and highlighted the dangers of using an open flame in an enclosed train coach.

Safety risks highlighted

The incident was shared on X, where the accompanying post warned that smoke from the ritual could trigger the train's fire alarm, while an open flame inside a moving train posed a serious fire hazard.



Incense sticks generate smoke that can activate the automated smoke detection system in AC coaches, potentially triggering the train's emergency braking mechanism. In addition, AC coaches contain synthetic bedding, curtains and upholstery, which are highly flammable and can allow a small flame to escalate into a major fire.

Railways seek details to investigate

Responding to the viral post, Railway Seva, the Ministry of Railways' official citizen grievance handle, sought details including the train number, date of travel and PNR to initiate an investigation.

The handle also advised passengers to register complaints through the RailMadad portal for faster resolution.

Social media users call for stricter action

The video prompted a strong reaction on social media, with many users saying that while religious practices should be respected, they should not compromise public safety.

One user described the act as a serious and punishable threat to fellow passengers. Another suggested introducing a safety breach reporting feature in the IRCTC app that could prioritise complaints using uploaded photographs. A third user noted that vendors are not allowed to carry matchboxes inside train coaches and argued that passengers lighting fires inside compartments should face heavy fines and detention if they refuse to comply.

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