In a concerted effort to maintain commuter safety and uphold regulations, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has taken strict action against male passengers found entering coaches designated for women. According to official data, DMRC has issued penalties to 1,906 male passengers between January and June this year for violating these norms.
Strict Enforcement and Penalties
Each offender is fined Rs 250 for entering women-only coaches, with the highest number of penalties issued in May at 443, followed by 419 in April and 408 in February. The DMRC’s Principal Executive Director, Anuj Dayal, emphasized the regular enforcement of penalties and various awareness campaigns aimed at educating passengers on respecting designated coach norms.
“The Delhi Metro regularly penalises male passengers who enter the coach reserved for women. In addition, a number of other awareness initiatives are also taken to sensitise the male passengers regarding this issue,” Dayal stated. He highlighted ongoing efforts such as in-train announcements, social media campaigns, and special enforcement drives to curb such incidents effectively.
Women’s safety remains a priority, reflected in the clear signage at platforms indicating the location of reserved coaches, typically the first coach of each train. Additionally, DMRC ensures reserved seating for women in all coaches and has deployed quick reaction teams to enforce regulations swiftly.
Earlier initiatives, like the special drive in September 2023 jointly conducted by DMRC, CISF, and DMRP, underscore the continuous efforts to prevent male passengers from entering women’s coaches. This drive spanned across all lines of the network from 6 pm to 10 pm over ten days.