Patna: The East Central Railway (ECR) has beefed up security measures at around 300 locations across its jurisdiction in view of the commencement of Durga Puja with a special focus on crowd management, passenger safety and prevention of untoward incidents at railway stations.According to ECR principal chief security commissioner-cum-IG RPF Amaresh Kumar, as part of the enhanced security arrangements, Railway Protection Force (RPF) has deployed advanced surveillance equipment including drone cameras, handheld metal detectors, door frame metal detectors, baggage scanners, solar-powered standalone cameras and body-worn cameras. “These gadgets will help security personnel keep a close watch on passenger movement and identify suspicious activities within railway premises,” he said.In addition, the RPF personnel have been deployed at foot overbridges (FOBs), circulating areas, ticket booking counters and waiting halls to regulate passenger movement and prevent overcrowding. CCTV cameras and RPF intelligence personnel are also being used to maintain round-the-clock surveillance at sensitive locations, the RPF IG said.Quick response teams (QRT) have been kept ready to deal with any emergency situation, while special security squads have been formed to strengthen vigilance during the festive rush. RPF is also monitoring crowd movement to ensure the smooth entry and exit of passengers at major stations, Kumar said, adding Patna Junction, Rajendra Nagar Terminal, Danapur, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, Samastipur, Barauni and other crowded stations are under 24×7 surveillance.Railway security personnel have been directed to remain alert throughout the festive period with particular attention to crowded platforms and other vulnerable areas. The railway authorities have emphasised that there should be no laxity in security arrangements and that all necessary steps must be taken to ensure the safety of passengers during Durga Puja, the RPF IG said.
