Southern Railway increases security ahead of Deepavali celebrations
The Chennai Division has warned passengers that carrying firecrackers or inflammable substances on trains could lead to imprisonment or fines.
The Chennai Division of the Southern Railway has increased surveillance at railway stations and on trains in anticipation of Deepavali, according to The Hindu.
Railway officials have advised passengers against transporting firecrackers, dangerous articles, or inflammable materials, noting that such items pose fire hazards during the festive rush.
The Railway Protection Force (RPF) is using sniffer dogs and explosive detection equipment to identify prohibited items. Authorities have also increased CCTV monitoring and sent out special teams to address security issues and passenger crimes.
Additional RPF staff have been stationed at platforms, entry and exit points, and crowded locations to manage queues and crowds. Heightened surveillance is in place at major stations including Chennai Central, Chennai Egmore, Perambur, Tambaram, Chennai Beach, Mambalam, and St. Thomas Mount.
Violators of these rules may face legal action under the Railways Act, 1989, which includes fines or up to three years in prison. Passengers are encouraged to report suspicious activities to the GRP, RPF, station authorities, or ticket-checking staff, or call the 139 helpline.