Title: Women’s Coach Relocation in Chennai Suburban Electric Trains to Enhance Passenger Safety
Chennai, Tamil Nadu – In a move to improve the safety of women passengers in suburban electric trains, authorities have announced plans to relocate the women’s compartment to the middle section. This decision comes in the wake of a recent incident where a young woman tragically fell to her death after being robbed of her smartphone.
With over 10 lakh daily users, the electric train service in Chennai caters to a large number of commuters. More than 600 electric trains operate daily, connecting Chennai with areas such as Tambaram, Chengalpattu, and Velachery, as well as Chennai Central to Tiruvallur, Kummidipoondi, and Arakkonam.
During peak hours, these trains often become overcrowded, leading to a surge in theft incidents. Particularly concerning are cases where such thefts result in fatal accidents, causing a sense of fear among commuters.
The incident that sparked this decision occurred on July 2nd when Preeti, a young girl from Kotturpuram, Chennai, was targeted by two youths as she disembarked at Indira Nagar railway station. The thieves snatched her mobile phone, pushing Preeti to the ground. Tragically, she suffered severe head injuries and passed away before receiving medical treatment.
The Railway Protection Force swiftly arrested the two individuals involved in the robbery. However, such incidents have caused significant alarm among women passengers, prompting them to demand stronger safety measures from the railway authorities.
In response to these concerns, senior officials of the Railway Security Force recently met with railway divisional officials to address the issue and propose enhanced security measures for women passengers.
As a result, it has been agreed to reposition the coaches dedicated to women in electric and short distance trains. Authorities suggest that allocating a single coach exclusively for women in the middle section of the trains will provide better security and convenience for passengers.
A circular has been issued by the Chennai Railway Divisional Security Division, instructing officials to rearrange the placement of women’s coaches from their current intermittent positions to a consistent and continuous arrangement in the middle of all trains.
This strategic relocation of women’s compartments aims to create a safer environment for female passengers, while also deterring thefts and addressing the concerns raised by the commuters.
The proposed change is in alignment with the passengers’ demands and highlights the railway authorities’ commitment to ensuring passenger safety, particularly for women traveling in Chennai’s suburban electric trains.