Why is Odisha Launching an Awareness Drive Against Reel-Making on Railway Tracks?
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Synopsis
In a proactive measure, the East Coast Railway (ECoR) has initiated an awareness campaign targeting the youth and social media users. This campaign warns against the dangerous trend of creating reels and selfies on railway tracks, emphasizing safety and legal consequences. Discover why this initiative is crucial for public safety.
Key Takeaways
- Awareness Campaign: ECoR launched a campaign to address dangers of filming on tracks.
- Legal Consequences: Violators face prosecution under the Railways Act, 1989.
- High-Risk Areas: Railway tracks are operational zones, not filming locations.
- Safety First: Life is more valuable than social media fame.
- Community Responsibility: Parents and educators must guide youth on safety.
Bhubaneswar, Oct 23 (NationPress) The East Coast Railway (ECoR) has initiated a significant awareness campaign aimed at warning the public, especially young people and social media users, about the dangerous and unlawful practice of taking selfies, filming videos, or creating “reels” on or near railway tracks, as well as on the footboards or rooftops of moving trains, according to an official statement from ECoR released on Thursday.
The ECoR highlighted that such reckless behaviors not only pose a serious threat to life but are also punishable offenses under the Railways Act, 1989.
The campaign has been initiated in response to a troubling trend where individuals, in their quest for social media recognition, endanger their own safety and disrupt railway operations, often resulting in tragic accidents.
The ECoR cautioned that railway tracks, station premises, and moving trains are high-risk operational zones, not suitable for entertainment content.
Engaging in such stunts or trespassing in these areas constitutes a serious danger to life and is an act of criminal negligence.
“The Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP) have been instructed to implement a ‘Zero Tolerance’ policy towards offenders. Legal action will be immediate and rigorous. Anyone found taking photos or videos near moving trains or trespassing on tracks will face strict consequences. Offenders will be prosecuted under Sections 147 and 153 of the Railways Act, 1989, with potential imprisonment and fines,” stated the ECoR.
In a message to students and young individuals, the ECoR urged everyone to comprehend and adhere to safety guidelines, stressing that “life is more valuable than a social media post.”
The public has been urged never to step onto railway tracks for any purpose, including photography, as trains can move much faster than they appear.
Railway authorities have advised against performing dangerous stunts such as leaning out of moving trains, riding on footboards, or climbing on roofs or engines for filming, as these actions can lead to fatal encounters with high-voltage Overhead Electric (OHE) lines.
ECoR has also called upon parents and educators to educate youth about the real risks and legal ramifications of such actions.
The Railway is intensifying its awareness initiatives through public announcements, digital outreach, and increased patrolling to avert further incidents, urging all citizens to prioritize safety over social media antics.
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize the alarming trend of social media stunts on railway tracks. The East Coast Railway’s initiative is a necessary response to protect lives and maintain public safety. It underscores the responsibility of both individuals and authorities to prioritize safety over fleeting online fame.
NationPress
23/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the awareness drive launched by ECoR about?
The awareness drive by ECoR focuses on educating the public, especially youths, about the dangers and legal implications of taking selfies and filming videos on or near railway tracks.
What are the consequences of violating railway safety rules?
Violating railway safety rules can lead to severe legal ramifications, including prosecution under the Railways Act, 1989, which may result in imprisonment and fines.
Who is most at risk from these dangerous practices?
Young individuals and social media enthusiasts are particularly at risk as they often engage in reckless behavior for online recognition.
How is ECoR addressing this issue?
ECoR is addressing this issue through increased public announcements, digital campaigns, and enhanced patrolling in high-risk areas.
What should parents do regarding this issue?
Parents should talk to their children about the dangers and legal consequences of taking risks on railway tracks and encourage safe behavior.
