Railways Enhances Security Measures for Passengers Amid Festival Rush

New Delhi: Amid festival rush, Indian Railways is making every effort to ensure safe travel for passengers and avoid any untoward incidents, Railway Ministry has said.

"Transporting people across India during Diwali and Chhath is a challenging task, but after successfully managing similar operations during Navratri and Durga Puja, Indian Railways is w fully prepared to help commuters reach ir native places for ongoing Diwali and upcoming Chhath celebrations," ministry said in a press statement.

It also urged passengers that if y come across any suspicious substances on railway premises, y should inform it to Railway Protection Force (RPF) using designated helpline 139 and RailMadad portal.

"As Diwali approaches, bringing light, joy and a surge in travel across country, RPF has implemented strengned safety measures to ensure secure and seamless train journeys for millions of passengers," statement said.

"To ensure safe travel during this festive season, RPF has launched an all-encompassing safety drive to curb fire hazards and prevent accidents on railway network," it added.

According to ministry, in collaboration with various stakeholders in Railways, RPF's awareness campaign includes distributing leaflets, displaying eye-catching posters, performing engaging street plays, and broadcasting public anuncements.

Social, print, and electronic media are being mobilised to spread mess to a large number of travellers, statement said.

"Enhanced lugg inspections and parcel checks, alongside monitoring of vendors and hawkers using portable stoves ("sigris"), are underway since October 15 to prevent any fire risks," ministry said.

Highlighting benefits of its proactive drive, press te said that so far, 56 individuals have been booked under Railway Act for carrying hazardous, inflammable items while 550 people have been penalised for smoking on trains.

Besides, 2,414 individuals have been booked under various provisions of Cigarettes and Or Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), it added.

"Diwali and Chhath are festivals of joy and togerness, and safety of our passengers remains our top priority," said Maj Yadava, Director General, RPF.

"We urge passengers to be vigilant and cooperate with our personnel to ensure a secure journey," he added.