HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, June 28: The Railway Protection Force (RPF) of NF Railway has initiated special campaigns to address the issues of stone pelting and alarm chain pulling on trains. These campaigns target nearby localities, railway tracks, stations, villages, schools, and passengers, aiming to educate them about the consequences of such actions on passenger safety and train operations. Posters and pamphlets are being distributed to raise awareness about the dangers associated with these menaces.
RPF personnel have been deployed in sections and areas prone to incidents of stone pelting to ensure the safe passage of trains. In 2022, a total of 38 incidents of stone pelting were reported on NF Railway. As of June 24, this year, 37 incidents have been reported, leading to the arrest of nine individuals. It is important to note that pelting stones or similar objects at trains is a criminal offense under sections 153 and 154 of the Railway Act. Offenders can face imprisonment for up to ten years if they intentionally or unintentionally endanger the safety of passengers onboard or obstruct rolling stock.
Additionally, there were 1,464 incidents of alarm chain pulling reported on NF Railway in 2022. From January to June 24, this year, 661 incidents have been reported, resulting in the arrest and prosecution of 639 individuals. Over Rs 1.52 lakhs in fines have been collected in connection with these incidents. Alarm chain pulling is a significant factor contributing to train service delays. NF Railway urges the traveling public to refrain from engaging in this practice to maintain the punctuality of train services. In case of emergencies or grievances, passengers are advised to inform the Traveling Ticket Examiner in charge of their respective coach for prompt resolution. Pulling the alarm chain without a reasonable and sufficient cause is a punishable offense under section 141 of the Indian Railways Act, 1989. The penalty may include imprisonment for up to one year or a fine of Rs 1000, or both.
NF Railway appeals to the general public and passengers to report incidents such as trespassing, stone pelting, and alarm chain pulling on trains by dialing the toll-free helpline number, 139. Railway property is public property, and safeguarding it is a collective responsibility that everyone shares.
