Recent incidents have triggered concern over commuter safety on Mumbai’s suburban railway network. In an interview with mid-day, IPS M Rakesh Kalasagar, commissioner of police, railways, Mumbai, discusses the force’s immediate response to violent incidents, why he believes overcrowding is not the primary trigger, and the measures being taken to reassure commuters.
Excerpts from the interview...
With a rise in violent incidents on local trains, what immediate response mechanisms does the GRP have in place, and what long-term measures are being implemented to curb such violence?
If we look at incidents involving weapons such as knives, cutters and other sharp objects, one of the key measures we have already implemented is intensive baggage checking. Every GRP police station has deployed teams of five personnel for these checks. We are also conducting random inspections at railway station entrances.
During these drives, we have intercepted several commuters carrying knives, cutter blades and other sharp objects and asked them to take these items back instead of carrying them while travelling.
At the same time, we are creating awareness among commuters, travel groups and parents, urging people not to carry sharp objects while using the railway network. Such tools may be needed at home or the workplace, but there is no reason to carry them during daily travel.
We have also increased the deployment hours of home guards inside train coaches, particularly in ladies’ compartments. Earlier, they were on duty from 9 pm to 6 am. Their duty has now been extended until 8 am to help prevent scuffles and arguments. In addition, we are using banners, public announcements, and social media campaigns to encourage commuters to remain calm, avoid violence, and refrain from carrying sharp objects while travelling.
Is overcrowding a major factor behind the recent rise in violent incidents on local trains?
Absolutely not. None of the recent violent incidents has occurred because of overcrowding, lack of space, or train cancellations or delays.
In almost every case, the trigger has been something minor but personal — an argument, an ego clash or an impulsive reaction in the heat of the moment.
Overcrowding has been a longstanding challenge on Mumbai’s suburban railway network, but it has not been the primary cause of these incidents. They are driven by individual behaviour and the inability of some people to control their anger, rather than by commuting conditions.
Do the GRP and the RPF continue to carry out regular foot patrolling at stations?
Yes. Over the past two to three years, around 40 to 45 cases of violent altercations have been officially registered.
One of the reasons for this relatively low number is our 24x7 foot patrolling, also known as station patrolling. I have issued strict instructions to ensure continuous visible policing so that commuters regularly see uniformed personnel at stations and on platforms.
Their presence acts as a deterrent and allows them to intervene quickly. In nearly 95 per cent of cases, scuffles, arguments and minor altercations are resolved on the spot before they escalate into serious offences or require the registration of a criminal case.
Why do you think such violent incidents are occurring now?
In two recent cases, the people involved were intoxicated. Consuming alcohol and then getting into an argument can quickly lead to aggression.
Many commuters are anxious after several incidents went viral on social media. How does the GRP plan to restore public confidence?
Fear is natural when people witness such incidents. However, I would like to point out that the GRP records only around two to four murders or similarly serious violent crimes each year. We are now being even more vigilant and conducting extensive checks across the railway network.
As part of our long-term plans, we are also pushing for baggage scanners, Door Frame Metal Detectors (DFMDs) and parcel scanners at railway stations. I have written to the Railways several times since taking charge regarding these requirements. We are doing everything within — and even beyond — our capacity to ensure people can commute safely, and we will continue strengthening these efforts.
What is your message to commuters?
Don’t be scared and don’t panic. If you witness any untoward incident or need assistance, report it immediately by calling the GRP helpline 1512 or approach our help desks, which are located at prominent and easily visible spots at major railway stations. Our helpline teams are available 24x7 to assist commuters. I would also urge passengers not to take the law into their own hands. If any situation arises, inform us immediately — we will be there to help.
* This article was originally published here
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