Railways Teams Up with GRP to Strengthen Safety Measures for Women Passengers.
New Delhi:
The Indian Railways has launched a series of measures in collaboration with the Government Railway Police (GRP) to enhance the safety and security of women passengers. This initiative, which focuses on both trains and stations, comes as part of an ongoing effort to provide better protection and address concerns related to crimes and safety on railways.
Key steps include the deployment of the Railway Protection Force (RPF) on vulnerable routes, ensuring additional security for long-distance trains under the ‘Meri Saheli’ initiative, and increasing surveillance through CCTV cameras at stations and in train coaches. Furthermore, passengers can access immediate assistance via the Rail Madad Portal or the Helpline Number 139, which is integrated with Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) No.112.
The initiative also includes awareness campaigns through frequent announcements about safety precautions, particularly to prevent thefts, snatching, and other criminal activities. Additionally, the Railways are conducting regular drives to prevent unauthorized entry into women-only compartments, taking legal action against offenders.
State Level Security Committees, chaired by the respective Director Generals of Police or Commissioners, have been set up for monitoring security arrangements across all states and Union Territories.
As part of long-term efforts to enhance women’s participation in railway security, the recruitment of women personnel in the Railway Protection Force (RPF) has increased from 3% to 9.38%, with ongoing recruitment processes to further boost this number. Notably, the Railways has recently issued notifications to fill 4,660 new RPF positions, with 15% of the seats reserved for women.
Furthermore, 566 railway stations have been equipped with CCTV cameras under the Nirbhaya Fund, investing Rs. 223.67 crores to ensure safer environments for all passengers.
This information was shared by Union Minister for Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw, in a written reply to the Lok Sabha today.
