Indian Railways Fortifies Tracks with 19,700 Km of Fencing to Enhance Safety

Comprehensive Fencing Project for Rail Security

In an unprecedented prioritization of rail operational safety, Indian Railways has completed the construction of security fencing along approximately 19,700 kilometers of its tracks nationwide. This extensive initiative aims to strictly prevent unauthorized access to railway tracks, curb the movement of livestock and anti-social elements, and ensure the seamless and safe operation of trains.

Union Railway Minister, Information and Broadcasting Minister, and Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw disclosed this information in response to a question in the Lok Sabha, underscoring the government's commitment to rail safety.

Tackling Stone-Pelting and Vandalism

According to the Ministry of Railways, the safety of passengers' lives is paramount. Incidents of stone-pelting on trains are viewed as a serious security threat causing damage to railway property. To address these incidents, railways have intensified surveillance and preventive measures in sensitive areas and identified 'black spots'. Strict action is being taken against individuals involved in stone-pelting under relevant legal provisions.

Railway administrations are conducting regular operations in affected areas prone to anti-social activities. These operations primarily focus on individuals under the influence of alcohol, rioters, and other suspicious elements. Swift action is taken against apprehended individuals according to prevailing legal regulations.

The railway's clear objective is to establish effective control over elements whose activities can not only damage railway property but also seriously endanger passenger safety. Additionally, strict instructions have been issued to railway staff and security forces to maintain heightened vigilance in such sensitive locations. Areas where previous incidents of stone-pelting or vandalism have occurred are under 24/7 surveillance to prevent recurrence.

'Operation Saathi' for Public Awareness

In densely populated areas near railway tracks, where stone-pelting incidents are frequent, railways are conducting special awareness programs like 'Operation Saathi'. These campaigns aim to educate residents about the dangers and severe legal consequences of such acts. They particularly emphasize to children and youth that throwing stones at moving trains is a heinous crime and a grave danger to the lives of passengers and railway personnel.

Detailed guidelines have also been issued by the railways to effectively control stone-pelting incidents. Each incident undergoes thorough analysis, including its potential causes, geographical locations, and circumstances, to inform targeted preventive measures.

Strengthening Coordination with Law Enforcement

To curb serious incidents like stone-pelting on trains, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) maintains continuous and effective coordination with the Government Railway Police (GRP) and local police. Vital information regarding sensitive areas is regularly shared, and joint operations are conducted when necessary, ensuring a rapid response and no information gaps between security agencies.

To facilitate the regular monitoring and review of railway security, 'State Level Railway Security Committees' (SLSCSR) have been formed in all states and Union Territories. These committees are chaired by senior officers at the Director General of Police (DGP) or Commissioner of Police level. They discuss various critical railway security issues and ensure necessary corrective actions are taken.

Expanding Security Measures Beyond Fencing

Indian Railways is not only focused on preventing stone-pelting but also strengthening security measures at various levels to prevent unauthorized access to tracks. With passenger convenience and safety in mind, security fencing is also being installed in subways meant for pedestrians. This aims to eliminate the need for people, livestock, and small vehicles to cross railway tracks, thereby reducing accident risks.

According to the latest railway data, approximately 19,700 kilometers of security fencing has been successfully installed along the tracks. Priority has been given to railway sections in key states like Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. The railways are confident that through fencing, continuous surveillance, public awareness campaigns, and robust coordination with police, incidents of unauthorized access and stone-pelting can be effectively controlled. The railways are continuously reviewing and expanding these measures to ensure complete travel safety for passengers.