As part of the zero tolerance policy, the East Coast Railway (ECoR) has launched a second phase of special drive to intensify strict action against unauthorised vending in trains and railway premises against those who are illegally engaged in selling goods on the train and at the platforms.
The first phase of anti-hawking drive was started in July and has borne good results.
Anticipating increased presence of hawkers on the train during the Puja vacation, the ECoR has directed its officials, including Commercial and RPF teams, to take strict action against the unauthorised hawkers. The drive is being led by Principal Chief Security Commissioner Raja Ram.
In view of the Puja rush, it is generally seen that the unauthorised hawkers start selling edibles, books and toys on the trains.
The threat possibility of the presence of anti-social elements among the hawkers also is a concern for the officials. Many chain snatchers and thieves board the train in the guise of hawkers and target the passengers.
Lifting of valuables from passengers is sometimes repeated in trains and this is a matter of concern for the Railways. Most of such offences are committed by people who move around in the guise of hawkers. Railway premises and trains see an increase of garbage due to illegal hawking of various items.
The officials have also been advised to intensify action against beggars and alms-seekers boarding the train and entering the railway station premise.
The beggars are being removed from the railway station premises. The ECoR has also urged passengers to provide their support for eradicating unauthorised hawking and beggars from trains by discouraging the hawkers.