On July 26, in Srinagar: On Wednesday, the Centre announced that it has established the State-level Security Committee of Railways (SLSCR) for all states and Union Territories (UT) to oversee and regularly assess the security measures in place for the railways.
In a written response to a question posed by Member of Parliament Ramesh Bidhuri, Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw said that the respective Director General of Police (DGP) and Commissioner of States and Union Territories (S&UT) oversee the SLSCR, which is responsible for the security of the railroads.
The Railway Minister provided information about the measures taken to ensure the safe and comfortable travel of senior citizens in the nation, noting that daily trains are also escorted by Government Railway Police of various States, in addition to vulnerable and identified routes and sections being protected by the Railway Protection Force (RPF).
The Minister said, “For immediate assistance, passengers may make complaints directly on Rail Madad Portal (integrated with National Emergency No. 112).”
According to the Union Railway Minister, RPF members actively help elderly travellers who need particular care as part of mission “Operation Seva”.
The minister said, “RPF has also started a targeted operation named Operation Dignity for rescue of aged, ill, differently abled, and other persons in need of care and safety.
He said that for increased passenger protection, CCTV cameras were installed at 866 railway stations, 7264 train cars, and other locations.
In response, the minister stated, “Under MeriSaheli initiative, special attention has been given for safety and security of woman passengers, including elderly persons travelling alone by long distance trains during the whole voyage, that is, from the originating station to the destination station.
According to the minister, there is a clause that automatically assigns lower berths to elderly persons and female passengers who are 45 years of age or older, even if no preference is expressed, provided that space is available at the time of booking.
‘Ramps and signs are provided at major railway stations to aid mobility of passengers, notably older persons and Persons with Disabilities (PwD). At train stations, escalators and elevators are also being added gradually, the minister said.
