Hyderabad: South Central Railway to tighten security at MMTS

To deploy more female RPF and GRP staff on trains, especially in ladies’ compartments and MMTS trains

Hyderabad: In the wake of the MMTS assault case, the South Central Railway (SCR) on Tuesday said that is has initiated additional measures to enhance security for passengers, especially women travelling in the city and suburban sections.

Arun Kumar Jain, GM, SCR, who conducted a review meeting on Tuesday, instructed railway officials to enhance security for passengers.

It has been decided to deploy more female RPF and GRP staff on trains, especially in ladies’ compartments and MMTS trains and ensure regular patrolling on MMTS trains, especially during late-night and early-morning hours.

It was also decided to display emergency contact numbers in all the ladies’ coaches including MMTS trains and at conspicuous places. To launch awareness campaigns by regular announcements through Public Address System in railway stations, display of posters in railway premises and sharing of relevant information on digital platforms to educate passengers about safety measures, helpline numbers, and how to report suspicious behavior.

Meri Saheli Teams have been instructed to move in MMTS trains and to conduct a thorough analysis of security vulnerabilities affecting female passengers, with a specific focus on high-risk routes along with MMTS sections.

Future plans to enhance women’s security

• Install CCTV cameras in all compartments and monitor real-time

• Install display screens inside trains to communicate safety messages and important security information for passengers

• Equip every ladies’ coach with easily accessible panic buttons linked to a control room and the train guard

• Explore to integrate the existing security helpline 139 with a mobile app featuring a one-tap SOS option

• WhatsApp groups managed by female RPF personnel to address women commuters’ grievances and emergencies immediately

• To issue breath analyzers to RPF personnel for conducting on-the-spot tests remove drunken passengers