TTT NEWS NETWORK
KOLKATA , 11 SEPTEMBER 2024:
Eastern Railway, in its continued commitment to ensuring the safety and security of passengers, especially daily commuters and women, has undertaken several significant measures to protect lady passengers and maintain their dignity. The Railway Protection Force (RPF) of Eastern Railway has launched an extensive campaign under Operation Mahila Suraksha to address the concerns of women passengers and provide a secure traveling environment.
Throughout August 2024, RPF of Eastern Railway conducted regular combing operations in ladies’ coaches across various trains, apprehending and prosecuting male passengers unlawfully traveling in those compartments. A total of 1,774 offenders were arrested and prosecuted under Section 162 of the Railways Act in this single month and a cumulative fine of ₹3,24,450/- was recovered. Eastern Railway has made it clear that no tolerance will be shown to anyone violating rules that affect the safety and dignity of women passengers.
Key Measures Implemented for Women and Child Safety: Train Escorts and Surveillance: 339 trains, including 12 ladies’ EMU special trains, are regularly escorted by RPF personnel. 74 express trains are jointly escorted by male and female RPF staff to ensure all-around security. A total of 3,894 CCTV cameras have been installed at 170 stations across the network, with 2,265 cameras actively monitored by RPF at 87 stations specifically for the safety and security of women passengers.
Passenger Awareness and Sensitization: Lady passenger awareness campaigns are conducted regularly at stations, in trains, and at educational institutions like schools and colleges to raise awareness about safety protocols and security measures.
Advanced Monitoring: 127 body-worn cameras have been provided to RPF staff for use during train escorts and passenger interface operations, allowing real-time monitoring of security situations.
Dedicated Assistance for Solo Women Travelers: “Meri Saheli” teams have been deployed at 15 stations to assist women traveling alone in 88 trains. These teams provide personalized assistance, ensuring women feel safe throughout their journey.
Matangini Squad:Deployed at 25 suburban stations, the Matangini Squad focuses on ensuring the security of women passengers, particularly in suburban areas, where daily commuting is high.
Child Rescue and Anti-Trafficking Operations: Six Child Help Desks at key stations (Howrah, Sealdah, Asansol, Malda Town, Bhagalpur, Sahibganj) are operational to assist and rescue children in need. Four additional help desks are in the process of being set up at Bandel, Barddhaman, Bolpur Shantiniketan, and Jamalpur.
In August alone, 125 children (88 boys and 37 girls) were rescued under Operation Nanhe Faristey and handed over to the Child Welfare Committee for rehabilitation.
As part of Operation AAHT (Anti-Human Trafficking), 71 specialized teams have been formed at RPF posts across Sealdah, Howrah, Malda Town, and Asansol. In August, nine boys were rescued, and five traffickers were apprehended.
Strengthened RPF Presence: At major stations, the presence of RPF personnel has been significantly increased to instil a sense of security among lady passengers. This proactive step helps maintain a visible and high-profile presence, further deterring any potential miscreants and ensuring that passengers feel safe during their travels.
Eastern Railway remains fully dedicated to upholding the safety, dignity, and comfort of its passengers, with special emphasis on women and children. These comprehensive measures reflect Eastern Railway’s commitment to providing a secure and trustworthy environment for all.
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