Maharashtra announces special action plan to secure Mumbai suburban railway stations
On Thursday, the Maharashtra government announced a special action plan to strengthen passenger safety and curb crime across the state's railway stations, with a particular focus on the busy Mumbai suburban train network. Speaking in the Legislative Council, Minister of State for Home Yogesh Kadam stated that the state will coordinate with local police and railway authorities to secure sensitive zones and platforms.
The announcement was made in response to a calling attention motion raised by MLC Ravindra Phatak. Kadam explained that the Railway Police, local police, and railway administration will jointly intensify operations and conduct enforcement drives at all major stations to take strict action against criminal elements.
As part of the immediate security measures, officers of the rank of Joint Commissioner of Police have been assigned to inspect identified sensitive railway zones. These officers will submit detailed reports recommending specific safety enhancements for those areas.
To bolster surveillance, the state government plans to expand the use of modern technology. This includes increasing the number of CCTV cameras equipped with facial recognition systems at stations. The government will also review security arrangements inside railway coaches in coordination with the Central government.
Addressing concerns regarding women's safety, Kadam announced that the government is positively considering extending the existing special security cover for women. The security cover, which currently runs from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m., may be extended until 8 a.m. once the necessary legal procedures are completed.
The minister also addressed demands to apply the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) to offenders on railway premises. Kadam assured that stringent legal provisions, including MCOCA, would be invoked wherever legally applicable.
A high-level meeting with the Railway Police Commissioner is scheduled to take place within the next 15 days. This meeting will focus on a detailed review of police action against criminal gangs and drug addicts operating within railway premises.
Furthermore, the state government plans to advocate with the Centre to increase the number of Mumbai suburban train services and security coaches to manage the growing passenger load.
