RPF, GRP launch stringent measures to curb reckless railway track crossing

In response to a distressing surge in run-over incidents, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and the Government Railway Police (GRP) have come up with stringent measures to curb the reckless crossing of railway tracks under the Palakkad division of the Southern Railways. Squads are now conducting intensive flash checks around major railway stations following reports of increasing violations, some of which have resulted in fatalities.

Officers said immediate legal action would be taken under Section 147 of the Railways Act against individuals found moving carelessly near the tracks. Squads have been instructed to maintain heightened alertness, especially in vulnerable stretches, while CCTV surveillance is being strengthened to ensure all violators are identified.

A GRP inspector involved in the intensified checks said that a significant portion of the negligent section comprises “well-educated and well-informed” persons. He added that the police have no option but to take stern action against such irresponsible behaviour. Many migrant workers, often travelling between States, continue to cross tracks hurriedly instead of using foot overbridges, lifts, or escalators.

According to police sources, around five deaths, including suspected suicides, occurred near Vadakara in the past one-and-a-half months. Among the victims were a hearing-impaired man and a woman whose tragic death was followed by the passing of her grieving father. In another incident on November 7, a patrol squad rescued a youth found on the tracks under suspicious circumstances. Their timely action, based on a tip-off, saved him just moments before the Vande Bharat Express arrived.

To curb the recurring incidents, local police have decided to conduct regular patrols along vulnerable track stretches within their jurisdiction. The authorities are also seeking the cooperation of residents’ forums to strengthen community surveillance. A merchant from Kallayi in Kozhikode city says many students continue to cross tracks carelessly during their daily commute, with some even attempting risky photoshoots for social media. He laments that several dangerous stretches remain unguarded, as calls for safety measures have gone unheeded.

Responding to the rising accident cases, various rail users’ forums have also stressed the need for additional safety measures, including more surveillance cameras in high-risk zones. They also call for the reactivation of residents’ groups to ensure rapid human intervention when dangerous pedestrian movements are detected.

Meanwhile, Railway sources confirm that discussions are under way to introduce advanced surveillance measures along the tracks securing clearance from the Central government. RPF officers are also expected to hold fresh meetings with residents’ forum functionaries for support and conduct more regional awareness programmes aimed at promoting safe behaviour near railway premises.