Train safety in Kerala: No extra police; security boosted only if violence threat is reported

Kollam: The Railways has said that additional police security will be provided only on trains where incidents of violence have occurred or where there are specific warnings of potential attacks. Officials said the existing security arrangements are considered adequate, as the state does not face major law-and-order issues.

All trains are staffed with guards, who can coordinate with the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and control rooms to ensure safety in the event of any dangerous situation.

The Railways has identified trains that have previously witnessed attacks on passengers, as well as those assessed to be at risk. Security measures have already been strengthened on such services. Trains on which women are likely to be travelling alone are also being identified and kept under surveillance. RPF and Government Railway Police (GRP) personnel interact with women travelling alone and collect necessary details as part of precautionary measures.

Additional security for women passengers

Special security arrangements are in place on trains operating after 6 pm. In addition, during festival and holiday seasons, when there is a higher volume of women passengers, the services of the Railway Protection Special Force (RPSF) from Chennai will also be deployed.

The RPF’s women’s battalion remains on standby, and female sub-inspectors and personnel of the RPF are posted at all major railway stations. The ‘Meri Saheli’ initiative aimed at women’s safety is also being implemented effectively.

Given these existing arrangements, officials said it is not feasible to deploy additional police personnel on trains. Current regulations do not permit such an increase, and any move to enhance police deployment would require approval from the Central Government and the Ministry of Railways. The Railways maintains that there is no situation in the state at present that warrants such special measures.