Western Railway implements crowd control measures for Holi

MUMBAI: The Western Railway (WR) has released detailed guidelines to manage crowds at stations ahead of the Holi festival. The new plan comes in response to recent stampedes and aims to prevent any similar incidents. On March 17, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw discussed these crowd control measures in the Rajya Sabha. The guidelines include building more infrastructure, creating holding areas, and controlling entry and exit points at stations. Officials explained that these measures were developed after a stampede in Delhi and heavy crowds during past festivals at locations like Bandra Terminus, Surat, and Udhna. The guidelines address nine key areas to ensure safety at stations. There will be increased staff presence, including Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP), at ticket counters, entry and exit gates, and platforms. Clear signs and public announcement systems will help manage crowds effectively. Holding areas will be set up to accommodate up to 3,000 passengers, complete with seating, lights, fans, and drinking water. Regular monitoring of ticket sales will take place to anticipate larger crowds and adjust plans accordingly. Additionally, the sale of platform tickets will be halted during festivals to manage attendance. WR authorities will also enhance security measures by having passengers queue under supervision when trains arrive. This is a precautionary step taken after injuries were reported in a previous incident at Bandra Terminus. Overall, these guidelines are intended to improve safety and manage large crowds during busy travel times.