The Ministry of Railways announced a comprehensive plan to make train journeys safer and more comfortable during rush hours, equipping 76 stations across India with modern facilities.
Permanent passenger holding areas are being created to decongest platforms. These areas will include seating, drinking water, toilets, ticketing counters, information displays, and security checks. New Delhi Railway Station has already commissioned such a facility, offering additional ticket counters, automatic ticket vending machines, RO drinking water, separate toilets for men, women, and Divyangjan, CCTV surveillance, luggage scanners, and improved lighting.
Access control systems will allow only passengers with confirmed reserved tickets direct entry to platforms, while those with waiting list tickets will wait in designated holding areas. Wider foot-over-bridges of 12 metres and 6 metres are being introduced to streamline passenger movement.
AI-enabled CCTV cameras are being installed for close monitoring, while war rooms at major stations will coordinate crowd management. New-generation communication equipment, including digital walkie-talkies and announcement systems, will strengthen on-ground coordination. Staff will receive QR-based ID cards and new uniforms for easy identification during emergencies.
A senior officer will serve as Station Director at major stations, empowered with financial authority to take immediate decisions. The Station Director will also control ticket sales based on station capacity and train availability, ensuring efficient management.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed these measures in the Rajya Sabha, highlighting the government’s commitment to passenger safety and convenience.
