ECR beefs up security in view of Holi rush

Patna: In anticipation of a massive influx of passengers during Holi, the East Central Railway (ECR) has reviewed and enhanced its security measures to ensure the safety and smooth travel of passengers. The festive period is expected to see an additional 15 to 20 lakh passengers in Bihar which falls under the ECR jurisdiction.According to ECR’s principal chief security commissioner-cum-IG, RPF, Amaresh Kumar, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) has been tasked with managing crowd control, particularly at the crowded stations like Patna Junction. In order to handle the expected rush, the RPF is setting up designated holding areas to regulate passenger movement and prevent overcrowding, he said.To further strengthen safety, the RPF will collaborate with the GRP to provide round-the-clock security at vulnerable places. The two forces will escort all passenger trains passing through high-risk areas, ensuring prompt response to any emergencies, Kumar said.Special attention will be given to critical areas within the stations. RPF personnel will maintain a vigilant watch over ticket booking counters, waiting halls, cloak rooms, circulating areas and concourses which are often hotspots for congestion, he said, adding random frisking will be carried out at these high-traffic points to combat potential security threats.In addition, the railways has also deployed quick response teams (QRTs) to act swiftly in case of any unforeseen incidents or emergencies. Anti-sabotage teams will be assigned to inspect empty train rakes at the yards, ensuring there are no hidden threats, IG said, adding RPF’s special investigation branch (SIB) and crime intelligence branch (CIB) teams will be stationed in plain clothes to keep a close watch on the crowd to curb pilferage and pickpocketing which are common problems during the festival rush.Ensuring the safety of women passengers remains a top priority, RPF assistance booths will operate 24x7, providing immediate help to women travelling alone. The railway authorities will also be on high alert to prevent touts from exploiting passengers during the rush, he said.