Amid concerns over overcrowding in trains and instances of ticketless passengers occupying reserved coaches, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reaffirmed the paramount importance of passenger safety. In a high-level meeting chaired by him, Vaishnaw directed officials to take stringent measures to prevent overcrowding and ensure the safety and comfort of passengers. The focus of the discussions centered on identifying busy routes and introducing special trains to alleviate overcrowding. Additionally, measures to enhance services and maintain punctuality were deliberated upon.
A senior railway official, who participated in the meeting, highlighted the emphasis placed on ensuring the regular functioning of essential amenities such as air conditioning, fans, and water coolers, especially during peak summer seasons. The minister stressed the interconnectedness of punctual train operations with passenger safety and comfort, emphasizing the need for uninterrupted services.
Addressing concerns regarding train delays, Vaishnaw urged officials to delve into the root causes behind such detentions on specific stretches. These delays not only impact punctuality but also inconvenience passengers. The minister underscored the importance of strict monitoring to improve overall punctuality across the railway network.
Recent incidents of ticketless passengers occupying reserved compartments showcased widely on social media platforms, have drawn attention to the need for stringent enforcement of ticketing regulations. A viral video depicting ticketless travellers aboard a premium Vande Bharat Express service prompted swift action from Indian Railways officials. The passengers were identified and removed from the train by railway authorities and the Railway Protection Force (RPF) before its departure from Lucknow Junction to Dehradun. Such incidents underscore the ongoing efforts to uphold safety and integrity within the railway system.
