Palakkad division launches initiative to ensure safe travel for women passengers

As part of the ongoing “Meri Saheli” initiative, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) of the Palakkad division has intensified its efforts to ensure safe and secure travel for female passengers, particularly those travelling alone on trains.

Dedicated RPF teams have been deployed at five major stations in the division to identify solo women travellers, sensitise them about safety precautions, and share emergency contact details, including the Rail Madad helpline (139) and digital grievance redressal platforms such as Instagram and the Centralised Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS).

This apart, the Railways has leveraged modern technology to enhance the safety of women passengers. Passenger feedback is also being collected to further strengthen the programme, officials said.

Security measures

Madhukar Roat, Palakkad Divisional Railway Manager, said that the safety and security of passengers, particularly women travelling alone, is of paramount importance. “With initiatives like Meri Saheli and strengthened security measures across stations and trains, we are committed to ensuring that every journey is safe, secure, and comfortable. These efforts are being continuously reinforced through the dedication of the RPF personnel and the cooperation of the passengers,” he said.

A total of 64 women RPF personnel have been nominated for the mission, with an average of 11 officers attending designated trains each day. They interact with nearly 230 solo women passengers daily. In 2025 alone, the initiative has benefited 37,276 women passengers and has received widespread appreciation.

Security has also been tightened across the division with additional measures. All major night trains are now escorted by mixed RPF teams equipped with body-worn cameras to ensure safety and accountability. Joint RPF-Government Railway Police (GRP) patrols during peak hours and intensified surprise checks in ladies’ coaches have been carried out, leading to the apprehension of 971 offenders this year.

Helpline

The officials said that publicising the Rail Madad helpline contributed to timely interventions. In 2025, 38 complaints were lodged through the helpline and were resolved promptly, with offenders either detained or arrested.

The RPF has appealed to passengers to cooperate with the security personnel, follow safety guidelines, and use official platforms to report concerns. The division reiterated its commitment to strengthening women’s safety across the network and ensuring that every journey remains safe, secure, and comfortable.