To prevent overcrowding and stampedes at railway stations, the Indian Railways has implemented strict new rules. The waiting areas established during the Maha Kumbh for 60 major stations across the country will be made permanent.
All Unauthorized Entry Points to Be Sealed
On March 7, a high-level meeting was held under the chairmanship of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to discuss crowd control measures at railway stations and take key decisions. All unauthorized entry points at the 60 major stations will be sealed. Only passengers with confirmed tickets will be allowed to enter the platforms.
Pilot Project Launched
The new system will be implemented immediately at New Delhi, Anand Vihar, Surat, Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Patna stations as part of a pilot project. Tickets will be sold based on the capacity of trains. A dress code has also been implemented for railway staff at stations. These changes are being introduced based on lessons learned from the stampede at New Delhi station during the Maha Kumbh, to avoid difficulties for passengers during festivals.
Permanent Waiting Areas
During the Maha Kumbh, waiting areas were established outside the 60 stations, which helped control crowds in Surat, Patna, and New Delhi. Passengers were allowed to enter the platforms only when the train arrived. With the new system, these waiting areas will be permanent, helping to control sudden crowding at the platforms.
Non-ticket Holders to Be Held in Waiting Areas
Passengers without tickets or those on the waiting list will be held in waiting areas. Wide foot-over bridges will also be built at stations to facilitate movement between platforms. The length of the bridge will be 12 meters and the width 6 meters.
Enhanced Surveillance and Security
A large number of cameras will be installed at all stations and surrounding areas for surveillance. There are also plans to establish war rooms at major stations, which will operate during crowded situations. Modern digital communication devices such as walkie-talkies will be used to enhance coordination.