Kerala Launches ‘Operation Rakshith’ to Strengthen Train Passenger Safety

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Police, along with the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Railway Police, has launched ‘Operation Rakshith’ to improve safety for train passengers in the state. Inspections have begun at railway stations and on trains to prevent dangerous incidents and detect hazardous items, including petrol, weapons, and other unsafe materials.

State Police Chief Raveendran Chandrasekhar, in a meeting on Wednesday, instructed both agencies to start safety measures immediately. Action will also be taken against passengers who misbehave or break rules. Breath analyzers are being used to identify travelers under the influence of alcohol. Additional personnel have been deployed, and CCTV cameras at stations are being increased and repaired to allow 24-hour monitoring.

The initiative comes after a serious incident on Sunday night near Varkala, where a drunk passenger allegedly pushed a young woman out of the general coach of the Kerala Express. She sustained serious injuries and is currently undergoing treatment at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Hospital. The assault has raised widespread concern about passenger safety on trains in Kerala.

Following the incident, the state police chief held an emergency meeting to review and strengthen security arrangements. Earlier, the Kerala government had written to the Railways requesting an increase in RPF deployment at stations. Various organizations, including DYFI, women’s groups, and government employees’ associations, have also urged the Centre to take immediate steps to ensure passenger safety.

Operation Rakshith inspections will continue in the coming days, focusing on maintaining safe travel and preventing any risky or violent incidents on trains and at railway stations.