Bhubaneswar: Keeping the festive rush ahead of Diwali in mind, East Coast Railway (ECoR) has launched an intensive fire safety drive across its network to prevent fire-related incidents and ensure a safe journey.The 15-day zonal safety drive, launched on Nov 4, is being conducted across Khurda Road, Sambalpur and Rayagada divisions. Railway officials, along with personnel from Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP), are carrying out inspections of stations, trains and railway premises to identify potential fire hazards and verify the readiness of firefighting equipment.ECoR has cautioned passengers against carrying firecrackers, gas cylinders, petrol, kerosene, acid and other combustible materials on trains, warning that transporting such items is a punishable offence under the Railways Act and can attract imprisonment.“As part of the exercise, officials are conducting random checks of luggage and parcels before loading, while also inspecting fire extinguishers, smoke detection systems, electrical wiring and other safety mechanisms in coaches, locomotives and pantry cars,” according to an ECoR statement.Railway authorities have also advised passengers not to use charging points for operating electrical appliances such as heaters. Staff members, including pantry car workers and contractual employees, are being sensitised on fire prevention measures and the proper use of firefighting equipment.Awareness campaigns, safety signage and pamphlets are also being rolled out to educate passengers, while station and running staff have been directed to remain alert and promptly report any signs of fire or safety violations during the festive season, said official sources.