Prayagraj: The North Central Railway (NCR) has initiated two major infrastructure and safety projects in the Prayagraj Division aimed at strengthening fire protection systems at railway establishments and improving passenger accessibility across stations. Tenders have been floated for both projects, with a combined estimated investment of more than Rs 8.6 crore.To enhance operational safety, NCR has invited e-tenders for the comprehensive maintenance and round-the-clock monitoring of advanced fire alarm systems installed at railway stations and highly sensitive relay huts (signalling rooms). The responsibility for operating and maintaining these systems will be entrusted to professional private agencies for a period of two years. The project, estimated to cost around Rs 3.03 crore, will ensure 24×7 surveillance and annual maintenance of fire detection equipment.Railway officials said relay huts and technical rooms are vulnerable to short circuits and other fire-related incidents that can disrupt signalling operations and halt train services. The advanced fire alarm systems are capable of detecting even minor traces of smoke or fire and issuing instant alerts, enabling swift emergency response and minimising operational disruptions.In another development, NCR has also issued a tender for constructing modern pedestrian pathways at stations on the Naini-Manikpur rail section. The project, estimated at nearly Rs 5.59 crore, is scheduled for completion within 12 months and will cover stations including Naini, Iradatganj, Jasra, Madaraha, Lohgara, Devara, Shankargarh, Majhiyari, Bargarh, Kataiya Dandi, Dabhaura, Panhai and Pahari Manikpur.The dedicated pathways will provide safe and convenient access to platforms, ticket counters and foot overbridges while helping passengers avoid crowded areas. The project also includes wheelchair-friendly ramps, railings and clear directional signage to improve accessibility for elderly and differently-abled passengers and reduce the risk of accidents within station premises.