After Varkala incident, Kerala Police step up patrols and safety measures on railway routes

Shoranur: Police officers have been directed to step up security measures for train passengers, following an incident in which a woman was assaulted by a fellow traveller in Varkala, Thiruvananthapuram.

The state police chief has issued strict instructions for officers to resume duty without taking leave, ensuring maximum deployment across railway routes. Alongside the Railway Police, personnel from local police stations will also be temporarily assigned to railway stations to strengthen security.

Special inspections are now being carried out on trains and platforms. Police have warned that passengers found travelling under the influence of alcohol will be detained, their journeys halted, and criminal cases registered. Those caught intoxicated on trains will be escorted to the next station and formally charged.

The police chief’s directive was issued on Wednesday afternoon, emphasising tighter surveillance at key railway hubs. Around 100 trains pass through Shoranur Junction each day, with thousands of passengers using its seven platforms. Officers have been instructed to monitor all trains and passengers to ensure safety and prevent further incidents.

Nearly half of Kerala’s trains operate without police on board, despite rules requiring two officers per service. The state government has offered to provide more personnel, but the Railways has yet to approve their deployment or pay its share of salaries. It also owes the state police ₹54.6 crore in arrears.

With over 200 trains passing through Kerala daily and only about 700 Railway Police officers available, ensuring security on all routes is impossible.