Ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of railway passengers is at the forefront of the Railway Protection Force’s (RPF) mission. In November 2023, RPF continued its relentless efforts to provide a secure and comfortable travel experience for millions of railway travelers across India. The force’s commitment extended to safeguarding railway property, passenger areas, and, most importantly, the lives of those on the move.
Several operations spearheaded by the RPF during the month showcased its dedication to a range of crucial objectives, contributing to the overall enhancement of railway travel safety. Here are some key highlights of RPF’s achievements in November 2023:
1. Operation “Nanhe Faristey” – Reuniting Lost Children: Under the compassionate mission “Nanhe Faristey,” RPF played a pivotal role in reuniting over 520 lost children with their families. These efforts were instrumental in ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable youngsters who had been separated from their families.
2. Anti-Human Trafficking Efforts (Operation AAHT): RPF’s Anti-Human Trafficking Units worked tirelessly across various railway posts to thwart the plans of human traffickers. In November 2023, the force successfully rescued 35 individuals from the clutches of traffickers, contributing to the ongoing fight against this heinous crime.
3. Operation “Jeevan Raksha” – Saving Lives: RPF’s proactive stance and swift actions saved the lives of 224 passengers who accidentally fell while boarding or deboarding moving trains. The “Jeevan Raksha” operation demonstrated the force’s commitment to ensuring passenger safety in critical situations.
4. Empowering Women Passengers – “Meri Saheli” Initiative: Dedicated to the security of women passengers, RPF’s “Meri Saheli” initiative saw the participation of 229 teams attending 13,552 trains. The initiative provided security assurance to 410,259 lady passengers, while also taking action against 4618 individuals found in women’s coaches.
5. Cracking Down on Touts (Operation “Uplabdh”): In the relentless fight against touts, RPF arrested 392 individuals in November 2023, seizing future tickets valued at Rs. 42.28 lakhs. These actions were under the law, contributing to the curbing of illegal ticketing practices.
6. Operation “NARCOS” – Combating Drug Crimes: RPF’s commendable efforts in Operation “NARCOS” led to the arrest of 91 individuals and the seizure of narcotics valued at Rs. 3.69 crores. The offenders were transferred to authorized agencies for additional legal proceedings.
7. Swift Response to Passengers’ Concerns: RPF addressed over 21,800 security-related passenger complaints in November 2023, demonstrating its commitment to promptly resolving passenger concerns through the Rail Madad Portal and helpline (Number 139 integrated with Emergency Response Support System Number 112).
8. Operation “Yatri Suraksha” – Protecting Passengers: In collaboration with the police, RPF arrested 229 criminals involved in offenses against railway passengers in November 2023, delivering them to the concerned GRP/Police.
9. Ensuring Safety through “Operation Sanraksha”: A resolute effort to maintain passenger safety, Operation “Sanraksha” resulted in the arrest of 28 individuals engaged in the perilous act of stone pelting on running trains.
10. Assisting Those in Need (Operation Seva): With a compassionate approach, the RPF offered aid to 191 elderly, sick, or injured passengers throughout their train journeys in November 2023.
11. Curbing Illegal Goods Transport (Operation Satark): During “Operation Satark,” RPF confiscated illicit tobacco products and unlawful liquor valued at Rs. 10,54,630, leading to the apprehension of 67 individuals. Subsequently, these offenders were turned over to the appropriate Law Enforcement Agencies.
RPF’s November endeavors underscore the force’s crucial role in ensuring secure railway travel and its dedication to the welfare of passengers. As a guardian of railway property and a protector of lives, RPF’s multifaceted operations contribute significantly to the overarching goal of a safe and comfortable railway journey for all.