Railways Update: Railways' mega plan for Diwali-Chhath: Additional trains and monitoring via FRS..

In anticipation of the surge in passengers traveling home for major festivals like Diwali and Chhath, the Railways has made special arrangements. A Facial Recognition System (FRS) will be deployed at railway stations to manage crowds and enhance passenger safety during the festive period. Additionally, extra space is being created at stations, the deployment of security personnel has been increased, and train operations are being closely monitored. The objective is to ensure that passengers do not face inconvenience due to overcrowding and can reach their trains safely.

To meet the increased demand during the festive season, the Railways has arranged for a total of 6,200 additional train trips, which include 3,600 special train trips. Furthermore, the regularization of 42 trains in the Eastern sector will provide approximately 2,600 additional trips. These arrangements are in place for the period from October 1 to November 30. According to Himanshu Shekhar Upadhyay, CPRO of Northern Railway, special focus is being placed on crowd management, security, and train operations.

Monitoring crowds via FRS
During the festive season, the number of passengers at major railway stations—such as New Delhi and Anand Vihar—increases significantly. Managing such crowds and maintaining security poses a major challenge for the Railways. In response, preparations have been made to utilize a Facial Recognition System (FRS), which will assist in monitoring crowd management and security arrangements.

However, specific details regarding how passengers will be monitored through the FRS and the exact circumstances under which it will be used have not yet been disclosed. The Railways aims to use technology and security measures to streamline passenger movement within stations, preventing the accumulation of large crowds and avoiding any potential disorder. Enhanced Arrangements at New Delhi and Anand Vihar Stations

At New Delhi Railway Station, an additional holding area has been set up near the Ajmeri Gate side to manage passenger crowds. A holding area is a designated space where passengers can be accommodated in an organized manner before their train arrives or before they proceed to the platforms. This helps in regulating the flow of passengers, preventing everyone from reaching the platforms simultaneously.

Similarly, a permanent holding area is being prepared at the Anand Vihar Railway Station. The objective of these measures is to control crowding at station entrances and in the vicinity of the platforms. During festive seasons, when a large number of passengers arrive at the station at the same time, such arrangements allow for better management of passenger movement.

Security to be Managed by RPF and State Police

To strengthen security during the festive season, additional personnel from the Railway Protection Force (RPF)—comprising both men and women—have been deployed. Furthermore, the Government Railway Police (GRP) and state police will collaborate to oversee crowd management and ensure security.

Security agencies will maintain close coordination to monitor passenger movement, organize crowds, and take immediate action whenever necessary. Special attention is being focused on stations that experience a significant surge in passenger numbers during festivals. The deployment of additional security forces will help ensure a safe environment for passengers and minimize the risk of disorder.

Live Monitoring of Trains via a 'War Room'

The Railways has also established a 'war room' for the live monitoring of train operations. This facility will allow for continuous tracking of train status, ensuring that any operational issues can be addressed promptly. The focus remains on coordinating the operation of additional trains, managing crowds at stations, and maintaining robust security arrangements.

The Railways' preparations extend well beyond merely running additional trains. Efforts are being made to manage passenger crowds during the festive season through the use of FRS (Facial Recognition System), holding areas, additional security personnel, and live monitoring. The objective of these arrangements is to make travel safer and more convenient for passengers during Diwali and Chhath.

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