Western Railway Tightens Safety With New Crowd Control Measures: Check The New Guidelines

In a bid to prevent crowding and ensure safety, Western Railway (WR) has devised an extensive plan, summarised in over 10 pages, detailing measures for crowd control at railway stations, according to a report by Hindustan Times (HT). The guidelines, which aim to improve crowd management and prevent untoward incidents, were announced following the recent stampede in Delhi and heavy crowding during past festivals at stations like Bandra Terminus, Surat, and Udhna.

On March 17, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw discussed these measures in the Rajya Sabha, outlining the steps Indian Railways is taking to ensure safety. The plan includes the creation of additional infrastructure, holding areas, and the suspension of platform ticket sales, alongside strict entry and exit control points.

The guidelines identify nine crucial aspects that need to be addressed to handle emergency situations effectively. These include the deployment of railway staff and police forces, such as the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP), to oversee ticket counters, platforms, waiting rooms, and foot-over bridges (FOBs). They will be stationed at strategic points to monitor crowds and manage movement.

Another key aspect of the plan is the establishment of holding areas, which are designed to accommodate up to 3,000 passengers at a time. These areas will be equipped with seating, lighting, fans, drinking water, and public address systems to direct the crowd. Automatic ticket vending machines (ATVMs) and ticket counters may also be set up in these zones.

According to a WR official, passengers will be directed to these holding areas based on train schedules and crowd estimates. Ticket sales will be monitored closely, with reports sent to senior officials if there is a sudden increase in demand for a particular destination. The idea is to adjust measures proactively to handle potential large crowds. The plan also includes avoiding changes to platforms for arriving trains to minimise confusion.

To further manage crowding, more ticket windows will be kept open during peak times, and it will be ensured that all ATVMs are functioning properly. Additionally, the sale of platform tickets will be suspended during festivals and holidays, as was the case during Holi from March 12 to 16 at stations like Mumbai Central, Bandra Terminus, Vapi, Valsad, Udhna, and Surat.

In response to incidents like the stampede at Bandra Terminus last October, WR authorities have proposed that passengers queue under the supervision of security personnel when trains reverse into stations. This measure aims to prevent accidents and ensure passengers can board safely.

A WR official explained that these guidelines are essential for better planning and management during peak times, ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers at all times.