Middle bays in coaches to be reserved for women: Prabhu

Railway minister Suresh Prabhu announced on Thursday that middle bays in coaches will be reserved for women as an additional security measure on trains.

Presenting his second Railway budget in the Lok Sabha, Prabhu said a round-the-clock helpline to be introduced soon was part of the government’s efforts to ensure safety and security of women.

The minister’s announcement comes in the wake of many complaints of sexual assault on women in moving trains, raising questions over safety measures of the country’s largest transporter.

He said that CCTV cameras will be introduced in 311 railway stations across the country to boost security measures.

Prabhu also announced a 33% sub-quota for women from reserved categories in catering services.

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