New Delhi, May 21: The Ministry of Railways has intensified security measures across the country’s railway network and appealed to passengers to remain alert and vigilant while travelling. Passengers have been advised to immediately report any suspicious activity, unattended object, or suspicious individual on railway premises by calling the Railway helpline number 139.
The appeal was made after a high-level security review meeting chaired by Union Railway Minister Ashwini vaishnaw at Rail Bhawan in New Delhi on Thursday. Minister of State for Railways v. somanna and Minister of State for Railways Ravneet singh bittu were also present at the meeting along with the Chairman of the Railway Board and senior railway officials from different zones across the country.
During the meeting, the Railway Ministry reviewed recent incidents affecting railway operations and infrastructure. Officials noted that preliminary investigations into multiple incidents, including recent fire-related cases, have indicated the possible involvement of anti-social elements. The Railway Protection Force (RPF) is actively investigating these cases. The Ministry stated that in several instances, timely intervention and prompt action by railway staff and security personnel helped prevent major accidents and ensured passenger safety. In view of these developments, Indian Railways has decided to further strengthen intelligence gathering systems and enhance security coordination across the railway network.
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said Indian Railways is extensively using modern technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), drones, CCTV surveillance systems and digital monitoring tools to improve the safety and security of trains, passengers and railway stations. He added that intelligence gathering at the grassroots level by the Railway Protection Force is also being strengthened in mission mode.
The meeting focused on improving reporting systems from field units, increasing CCTV coverage across stations and railway tracks, upgrading camera specifications and deploying AI-based surveillance systems for faster detection and response. Discussions were also held on strengthening cyber security systems and improving coordination between the Railway Protection Force and Government Railway Police for better information sharing and effective security management.
Indian Railways has appealed to passengers to actively cooperate with railway authorities by remaining vigilant during travel and reporting any suspicious movement or activity without delay. Officials said public participation is essential in preventing anti-social activities and ensuring a safe railway environment for millions of passengers travelling daily across the country.
