Kerala - Kochi   

RPF to revamp security set-up

KOCHI: The Railway Protection Force (RPF) has set in motion a revamp of its security system. As part of the modernisation drive, hi-resolution cameras have been installed at Trivandrum Central, Ernakulam Junction and Thrissur railway stations.

Similar system is being considered at Kottayam, Kollam and Chengannur railway stations, said K.K. Ashraf, Commissioner, RPF, Trivandrum Division. Chengannur station is being considered as it witnesses heavy traffic during the Sabarimala pilgrim season.

The force has prepared a list of 16 equipment as part of revamping its bomb detection and disposal squad. The force will procure the material soon, he said.

Also, a new dog squad will be formed for Ernakulam Junction.

At present, the force has a three-dog-strong squad stationed in Thiruvananthapuram. The RPF has set a target of one year for procuring and training dogs for the new squad.

Along with hi-end gadgets, the force is also organising sensitisation programmes for porters, taxi drivers and vendors.

These people, who interact with the crowd at the platform, will be able to spot criminals more effectively than mechanical surveillance systems, said Mr. Ashraf.

Even though the system has been in place, efforts are being made to institutionalise it with regular classes once in every three months.

Awareness campaigns are being launched for passengers also. Display boards are being put up and pamphlets distributed. Forms are also being distributed in trains to get feedback from passengers on safety aspects.

The feedback form has provision for passengers to lodge complaints and suggestions. Complaints are promptly forwarded to the departments concerned, Mr. Ashraf said.

The force is also planning to implement community policing with active participation of passengers. A project has been prepared.

At present, the RPF has a helpline for passengers to air their complaints (0471-2330502). We have placed request with the BSNL authorities to give a toll-free number as helpline, preferably the number 1000. This is expected to be processed soon, he said.

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