Amid the festival rush, Indian Railways is making every effort to ensure safe travel for passengers and prevent any untoward incidents, according to the Railway Ministry. The ministry acknowledges that transporting people across India during Diwali and Chhath is a challenging task. However, after successfully managing operations during Navratri and Durga Puja, Indian Railways is fully prepared to assist commuters in reaching their native places for the ongoing Diwali and upcoming Chhath celebrations.
The ministry urges passengers to report any suspicious substances found on railway premises to the Railway Protection Force (RPF) using the designated helpline, 139, and the RailMadad portal.
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Strengthened safety measures
As Diwali approaches, bringing light, joy, and a surge in travel, the RPF has implemented enhanced safety measures to ensure secure and seamless train journeys for millions of passengers. The RPF has launched a comprehensive safety drive aimed at curbing fire hazards and preventing accidents across the railway network.
Awareness campaign initiatives
In collaboration with various stakeholders in Railways, the RPF’s awareness campaign includes distributing leaflets, displaying eye-catching posters, performing engaging street plays, and broadcasting public announcements. Additionally, social, print, and electronic media are being mobilized to spread the message to a large number of travelers.
Since October 15, enhanced luggage inspections and parcel checks have been implemented, alongside monitoring vendors and hawkers using portable stoves (“sigris”) to prevent fire risks. The ministry reports that 56 individuals have been booked under the Railway Act for carrying hazardous, inflammable items, while 550 people have been penalized for smoking on trains. Furthermore, 2,414 individuals have been booked under various provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA).
“Diwali and Chhath are festivals of joy and togetherness, and the safety of our passengers remains our top priority,” said Manoj Yadava, Director General of RPF. He urged passengers to be vigilant and cooperate with personnel to ensure a secure journey.
With inputs from PTI