Extra RPF Units Deployed to Aid Maha Kumbh Pilgrims: Central Railway Post Delhi Tragedy
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Synopsis
In the wake of the unfortunate stampede at New Delhi Railway Station, Central Railway has ramped up efforts to assist Maha Kumbh devotees by deploying additional Railway Protection Force and commercial staff to manage crowds and ensure passenger safety.
Key Takeaways
- Extra RPF and commercial staff deployed.
- 42 special trains operational for Maha Kumbh.
- New 'May I help you' booths at stations.
- Additional stoppages for Kumbh route.
- Public announcement systems in use for train updates.
Mumbai, Feb 16 (NationPress) Following the tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station that resulted in 18 fatalities, Central Railway's Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) Swapnil Nila announced on Sunday that additional Railway Protection Force (RPF) and commercial personnel have been dispatched to various stations to assist passengers and manage the increasing crowd.
In an interview with IANS, Nila elaborated on the numerous measures implemented by Central Railway to support Maha Kumbh devotees and efficiently handle the surge of travelers.
Nila emphasized the availability of trains, stating: "Central Railway is operating 42 special trains to manage the influx of Maha Kumbh pilgrims. Additionally, 40-50 trains are running for daily commuters. Furthermore, twenty special trains originating from different stations also serve many stops along the Central Railway."
To enhance passenger convenience, 'May I help you' booths have been established at multiple stations for inquiries, and extra halts have been added on the Kumbh route to better serve the pilgrims, he noted.
"We are consistently increasing the deployment of RPF and commercial staff, including Ticket Collectors and head Ticket Collectors, based on demand. They intervene wherever the crowd density escalates," he stated.
Nila also pointed out: "Initially, 34 trains were designated for the Maha Kumbh, but due to the significant influx, we have increased the number of trains and added extra stops for the Kumbh devotees."
Moreover, public announcement systems are actively used to keep passengers updated about their train arrivals, he mentioned.
He further shared that the Central Railways has set up extra ticket counters, and more RPF and Commercial Railway personnel have been assigned for crowd management.
The Central Railway CPRO indicated that if the crowd escalates, additional security staff will be deployed to manage the situation.
For effective crowd management, Railway officials have been instructed to allow adequate time between the arrivals of two trains on the same platform, ensuring that passengers disembarking can safely exit the station.
"Special trains will operate on February 22-23. We will monitor passenger traffic and may temporarily halt platform ticket sales as necessary," Nila concluded.
