Fewer balloon missiles into local trains?

This year, train commuters may be spared some of the water balloons hurled every Holi resulting in serious injuries, including blinding, reports Susamma Kurian.

This year, train commuters may be spared some of the water balloons hurled every Holi resulting in serious injuries, including blinding.

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On February 24, the Thane Railway Protection Force (RPF) began a drive to prevent balloon throwing — it aims to create awareness among slumdwellers living near the tracks on the Mumbra-Kalwa route.

“Last year, we got several complaints about water balloons. This year, we’ve posted officers in plainclothes near the tracks. They’ve also been asked to create awareness in these slums,” said Senior Inspector Ajay Yadav.

This week, the RPF caught a 12-year-old boy in the act. “The boy was produced in the juvenile court. His parents were asked to promise in writing that he will not indulge in such activities any more, failing which he will be severely punished,” said Yadav.

The drive is on till March 2.