Train blasts: PMO steps in, tells Rlys to completely revamp passenger security

When Railways Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav presents the Rail Budget tomorrow, measures for improving passenger security will be carefully looked at.

When Railways Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav presents the Rail Budget tomorrow, measures for improving passenger security will be carefully looked at. Because the Prime Minister’s Office, realising that at the end of the day security of Pakistani passengers on the Delhi-Attari Special was India’s responsibility, has stepped in and asked Railways to come up with a foolproof new passenger security paradigm that can be applied across the country.

According to Railways sources, the PMO has expressed concern over the ineffective security arrangements at Old Delhi railway station, pointing out that railway platforms remain overcrowded and accessible to all which makes it an easy target for terrorists.

In fact, it was the PMO’s suggestion to shift the departure of the Attari special that connects with the Samjhauta Express to Safdarjung railway station. Realising that this could at best be an interim measure, the Railways has been told that the larger issue of security can be addressed only through a complete revamp in approach, not just for Samjhauta Express, but all trains.

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Given that the last two major terror attacks — 7/11 in Mumbai and the one on Samjhauta — are leading to similar conclusions about railway security, the PMO has also emphasised the need to introduce baggage screening and asked the Railways to come up with concrete plans that can be implemented soon.

Pushed to act, the Railways has taken steps for Samjhauta Express by doing away with unreserved coaches in the train and is now planning to restrict platform entry to only passengers. But clearly, there is recognition to conduct a revamp starting with removal of multiple agencies responsible for security. The other issue that has been flagged is to take a relook at the concept of unreserved travel.