'Anti-trespassing drive a success'

The number of the deaths on the tracks due to trespassing have come down, claims the railway police.

The number of the deaths on the tracks due to trespassing have come down, claims the railway police.

HT Image

“The mishaps occurring on the tracks have come down by 15-20%. This is, not only due to the drive against trespassing but also several other factors,” said Srinivas Mudgerikar, Central Railway PRO.

The Government Railway Police also conducts a drive against crossing tracks. However, the Railway Protection Force is the main body that is in charge of the drive.

“Advertisements against harms of trespassing and public awareness have made a difference. But without the help of the people, it is impossible to completely curb the mishaps,” said Mudgerikar.

Railway police commissioner Tukaram Chavan said anyone caught crossing tracks is fined Rs 500. “People should realize that in railway mishaps the victim loses his life,” he said.

“There are two foot overbridges at Vikhroli station. Pedestrians are fined if caught using them without valid tickets. Hence people use the level crossing,” said Dilip Gore, senior inspector from Kurla GRP.

The proposal of constructing a foot overbridge in Vikhroli was passed in 1999.