Use tech to strengthen rly safety: CM

‘Women Security On Trains Top Priority’Lucknow: Chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday directed officials to modernise Uttar Pradesh’s railway security framework, calling for technology-enabled and results-oriented policing models across stations, platforms, trains and track networks.During a review meeting on the functioning of the Govt Railway Police (GRP), Yogi said that Uttar Pradesh handles the country’s largest rail traffic, with lakhs of train commuters transiting through network of railway stations daily.“That is why we have to pay attention to improved safety, security of all the passengers and particularly that of women passengers who use the trains,” said Yogi.Reviewing railway track and train security, Yogi asked for stronger coordination with the railway administration, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and local police.Yogi ordered a special campaign aimed at eliminating stone-pelting incidents on railway premises and trains. Officials said sustained public awareness initiatives, security chaupals, counselling of parents and youths, would be carried out through volunteers and emphasis would be on swift prosecution.On crowd management, the CM directed that passengers should not face inconvenience at stations during festivals, major events, recruitment examinations and other peak periods. He called for effective crowd control through entry-exit regulation, queue management, regular public announcements, round-the-clock CCTV monitoring and close coordination with railway authorities.Yogi said that a safe environment should be ensured for women across the railway network. He also reviewed cases related to human trafficking and missing children and ordered that recovery campaigns be intensified.The CM stressed swift and effective punishment for criminals while reviewing prosecution processes. He directed the state govt to provide necessary support for manpower deployment and equipment to expand and modernise the GRP and said that other requirements be taken up with the Railway Ministry and Railway Board.Reviewing preparations for the proposed Haridwar Ardh Kumbh in 2027, Yogi instructed officials to draft a comprehensive security and crowd management plan and ensure time-bound coordination among districts and agencies.