The safety and security of passengers traveling on Indian Railways have always been a priority. In line with this commitment, the railways have taken various measures to ensure the well-being of passengers, with a particular focus on women’s safety. The efforts encompass collaborations with law enforcement agencies, surveillance enhancements, awareness campaigns, and escort services.
Under the Seventh Schedule to the Constitution of India, “Police” and “Public Order” fall under State subjects. Hence, State Governments are responsible for crime prevention, detection, investigation, and maintaining law and order on railways through their law enforcement entities, such as Government Railway Police (GRP) and District Police. The Railway Protection Force (RPF) collaborates with these agencies to augment the protection of railway property, passengers, and passenger areas.
The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) publishes state-wise statistics on incidents of violence against women on railways. Data up to 2021 reveals a significant reduction in reported cases of crimes against women compared to 2018 and 2019. Due to the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, data for 2020 was excluded from the comparison. Figures for 2022 and the current year are yet to be released by the NCRB.
Enhanced security is achieved through surveillance via CCTV cameras installed in 7264 coaches and 866 railway stations.
Regular awareness campaigns, including posters, banners, leaflet distribution, and videos on the Railway Display Network (RDN), educate passengers on taking necessary precautions during their journeys.
Railways also take the following steps, in collaboration with GRP and Local Police, to ensure the safety and security of passengers, particularly women:
- Escorts: On vulnerable routes, Railway Protection Force escorts trains to supplement the efforts of the Government Railway Police.
- Social Media Engagement: Railways maintain an active presence on social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and Koo to engage with passengers and address their security concerns.
- Helpline Assistance: The Railway Help Line number 139 operates 24×7 to provide security-related assistance to distressed passengers.
- Public Address System: Frequent announcements are made over the Public Address System to educate passengers about precautions against theft, snatching, and other risks.
- ‘Meri Saheli’ Initiative: Special focus is given to the safety of lone female passengers through the ‘Meri Saheli’ initiative, ensuring their security throughout their journey.
- Gender-Balanced Escort Teams: Train escort parties consist of an appropriate balance of male and female Railway Protection Force personnel.
- Compartment Segregation: Efforts are made to prevent male passengers from entering compartments reserved for women.
- State Level Security Committee: The State Level Security Committee of Railways monitors and reviews security arrangements across all states and union territories.
The Minister of Railways, Communications, and Electronic & Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, recently provided this information in a written response to a question in Lok Sabha. These collective efforts stand as a testament to Indian Railways’ commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all passengers on its trains.
