The Delhi Division of Northern Railways has not only introduced 50 special trains to beat the summer rush but also ensured proper facilities to make travel easier during the simmering heat. Senior Railway officials said from lassi machines to janata khana, tight vigil is being kept to ensure safety at railway station that has witnessed an increase in footfall of 1.5 to 2 lakh.
Special deployment of the GRP and RPF personnel at the parcel area has been done to avoid any untoward incident. Regular patrolling is being conducted by dog squad and security personnel with hand held metal detectors. loco drivers have been counselled to cautiously roll in trains at stations keeping in view the overcrowded platform. Regular inspection of CCTV cameras on all the platforms and circulating area.
“We have ensured the presence of Railway Protection Force (RPF) during the rush hour to ensure no untoward instance or stampede take place at stations,” said Arun Arora, Divisional Railway Manager Delhi Division of Northern Railways.
To ensure medical facilities, one doctor has been nominated for each station to be called at short notice in case of emergency. Special first aid posts with medical attendants have been set up at stations. Railway hospitals have been instructed to be ready to attend cases specially related to heat stroke and dehydration. Token operated vending machines for cold water, lassi and butter milk at all the platforms.
“It is always a challenge to handle the summer rush. The railway department didn’t leave any stones unturned, from additional trains to deployment of railways officers; we have been trying to provide all amenities,” said Arora.