Has the Centre Introduced a Special Action Plan for 73 Major Railway Stations to Manage Festive Crowd Rush?
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Synopsis
The Indian Railways is implementing a groundbreaking action plan to manage festive crowds at 73 major railway stations. This initiative, spearheaded by Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, includes creating permanent waiting areas and appointing Station Directors for efficient crowd control. With these measures, the festive travel experience is set to improve significantly.
Key Takeaways
- 73 major railway stations will have permanent waiting areas.
- A designated Station Director will oversee crowd control.
- Direct access to platforms for passengers with confirmed tickets.
- Enhanced monitoring through CCTV cameras.
- New staff uniforms and ID cards for easier identification.
New Delhi, Aug 1 (NationPress) The Railways Minister, Ashwini Vaishnaw, announced to the Parliament that a decision has been made to establish permanent waiting areas outside 73 railway stations nationwide, which frequently experience significant crowds, as part of an initiative to manage passenger influx during the festive period.
These key stations will appoint a Station Director who will have the authority to make immediate decongestion decisions, such as limiting ticket sales based on capacity and train availability during peak festive times, the minister disclosed in a written response to the Rajya Sabha.
The buildup of crowds will be regulated within the waiting area, allowing passengers to access the platforms only when their trains are ready for boarding. This strategy aims to alleviate congestion on the platforms, according to the minister.
Initial pilot projects have commenced at New Delhi, Anand Vihar, Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Ghaziabad stations, as stated by him.
The action plan draws from experiences gained during the management of passenger crowds at stations like Surat, Udhna, Patna, and New Delhi in 2024. Similar measures were implemented during the Mahakumbh at nine stations in the Prayagraj region.
Based on insights from these locations, it has been resolved to implement comprehensive access control at the identified 73 stations.
Passengers with confirmed reservations will receive direct access to the platforms, while those without tickets or on the waiting list will remain in the designated waiting area. All unauthorized entry points will be secured, the minister confirmed.
Additionally, two new designs of standard FOB (Foot Over Bridges) measuring 12 meters wide (40 feet) and 6 meters wide (20 feet) have been developed. These wider FOBs, featuring ramps, proved effective in managing crowds during the Mahakumbh. The installation of these new standard wide FOBs will occur across all stations.
Moreover, the use of cameras significantly aided crowd management during the Mahakumbh. CCTV cameras at railway stations and surrounding areas will facilitate thorough monitoring and management of crowds, the minister stated.
War rooms will also be established at major stations, where officials from all departments will operate during peak crowd situations.
Modern digital communication tools, including walkie-talkies, public announcement systems, and calling devices, will be implemented at all stations experiencing heavy crowds.
The minister added that all personnel and service staff will receive newly designed ID cards, ensuring that only authorized individuals can access the station. New uniforms will also be provided to help identify staff during emergencies.
Each major station will have a senior officer designated as the Station Director, with all other departments reporting to them. This director will be financially empowered to make prompt decisions aimed at enhancing station operations, the minister explained.
Furthermore, collaboration with other stakeholders, including GRP and State Police, has been intensified, and personnel from the Railway Protection Force are stationed at critical points to manage crowds efficiently during busy periods and provide real-time support to passengers, the minister concluded.
Point of View
The measures being introduced are essential for improving passenger experience during peak travel times. The proactive steps taken by the Railway Minister reflect a commitment to ensuring safety and efficiency in rail travel. As we approach the festive season, these changes will likely ease congestion and provide a more organized travel environment.
NationPress
06/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key features of the new action plan for railway stations?
The action plan includes establishing permanent waiting areas, appointing Station Directors, implementing crowd control measures, and enhancing communication systems.
How will passenger access be managed at these stations?
Passengers with confirmed tickets will have direct access to platforms, while those without tickets will wait in designated areas.
What technology will be used for crowd management?
CCTV cameras and modern communication equipment will be installed to monitor crowd situations effectively.
Will there be any changes in staff identification?
Yes, all staff will receive new ID cards and uniforms to ensure easy identification during emergency situations.
How will the railway authorities coordinate with local law enforcement?
Coordination with GRP and State Police has been enhanced, and RPF personnel will be deployed at sensitive locations for crowd management.
