Railways to videograph train passengers as security measure

New Delhi, Feb 19: The Railways has decided to videograph passengers of trains on sensitive routes at the time of boarding as part of strengthening security measures.

Railways will also set up a commando training centre to provide specialised training to RPF personnel to be deployed in trains passing through Maoist-affected areas.

"Our efforts are to provide security escorts in all sensitive trains. We have already started the process of videography of all passengers in some selected trains so that we know who are all travelling in these trains," Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu said while speaking to reporters on the sidelines of RPF Investiture Parade ceremony.

He said they were also planning to install CCTVs in coaches to monitor the situation.

"We are looking for suitable land for setting up a commando training centre for RPF personnel who will be required in Maoist-affected areas," he said.

Giving priority to security for passengers particularly women, the Railway Minister said "a separate Mahila Vahini will be created soon."

Currently, there are 1,400 women in RPF and 1,000 more are going to be inducted shortly.

"We have sanctioned Rs 48 crore for construction of separate baracks for women RPF personnel."

RPF will construct 12 baracks for its women wing.

Lauding the role of RPF, Prabhu said, "Safety and security of passengers is our primary responsibility. GRP along with RPF is doing it in Railways."

On the proposed empowerment of RPF, he said, "it requires amendment in law as law and order is a state subject and for any change, states' cooperation is also required.

"We have written to all states for this. This can be achieved with the cooperation of states," he said.

"An App has been developed for women passengers and is already operational in a few places for strengthening security," he added.

Aiming to improve its investigation method, Prabhu said, "We are writing to all states for linking with forensic laboratories. It will help to keep a track on the criminal records and profiles. It will also help detection of crime faster."

PTI