₹18.57 lakh fines for unlawful chain pulling

Officials in the Prayagraj division of North Central Railways (NCR) have taken stern steps against unauthorized alarm chain pulling on trains. This action aims to reduce unnecessary delays. They have reported 3,688 incidents of illegal chain pulling since the beginning of the financial year 2024-25, resulting in fines totaling ₹18.57 lakh. During this crackdown, 3,684 offenders were arrested. Amit Singh, the public relations officer for the division, stressed that the alarm chain should only be used in genuine emergencies, as misusing it can lead to legal penalties under the Railway Act of 1989. Data shows that at Prayagraj Junction, 375 cases were recorded. Here, 373 passengers were arrested, and over ₹2 lakh in fines were collected. Aligarh Junction reported 349 cases with similar enforcement, resulting in the arrest of all involved passengers. At Kanpur Central, 492 cases led to the arrest of 490 passengers, who paid fines totaling over ₹2 lakh. Other stations, like Etawah and Fatehpur, also faced similar issues, with hundreds of fines issued for chain-pulling violations. NCR officials urge passengers to avoid using the alarm chain without cause. Misuse not only breaks the law but also disrupts travel for others. The railway aims for safe, timely service, and requests passengers' cooperation for a smoother journey.