Massive Crackdown on Railway Offences in Mumbai
The Railway Protection Force (RPF) launched an extensive enforcement drive across Central Railway's Mumbai division during October 2025, resulting in legal action against 8,184 individuals for various violations. The month-long initiative targeted offences ranging from ticketless travel to unauthorized entry into women's compartments, generating ₹38.03 lakh in penalty collections.
Surprise Checks Yield Significant Results
RPF personnel revealed that surprise inspections were significantly intensified following a noticeable increase in passenger complaints. The enforcement drive, conducted throughout October, focused particularly on high-footfall stations and peak travel hours. According to officials, the coordinated effort aimed to address multiple security and compliance issues simultaneously.
Among the most persistent violations identified was the illegal entry into ladies' coaches, especially during crowded morning and evening periods. The problem remains particularly acute on the CSMT–Kalyan and Dadar–Thane sections, where men frequently crowd into compartments reserved exclusively for women passengers despite clear safety regulations.
Multiple Offense Categories Addressed
The enforcement statistics reveal a diverse range of violations. In a significant action against property theft, 59 persons were booked under the Railway Property (Unlawful Possession) Act, leading to recoveries valued at ₹4.62 lakh. Additionally, authorities apprehended 17 individuals for illegal possession of liquor, ganja, and tobacco products with an estimated value of ₹8.21 lakh.
Passenger safety received special attention during the drive, with 161 persons arrested for theft of passenger belongings and other crimes targeting commuters. The comprehensive approach ensured that both property-related offences and personal safety violations were addressed with equal seriousness.
Enhanced Security Measures Implemented
Officials emphasized that enforcement actions were supported by robust surveillance infrastructure. Activities on platforms and inside trains are monitored continuously through CCTV cameras installed across stations and in all 788 ladies' coaches of Mumbai's EMU rakes. This technological backbone provides crucial evidence for legal proceedings and deters potential offenders.
The security strategy also includes strategic deployment of RPF staff in the first and last coaches of suburban trains during peak hours to deter snatchers and intruders. Additionally, women's coaches receive dedicated security escorts during night hours, creating multiple layers of protection for female passengers.
Dr Swapnil Nila, Chief Public Relations Officer of Central Railway, affirmed the organization's commitment to passenger safety. "Central Railway remains committed to ensuring safe and secure travel for all passengers, especially women," he stated. "Our RPF teams have intensified checks, strengthened surveillance and deployed dedicated escort personnel to curb violations such as the misuse of ladies' coaches. These enforcement drives will continue with the same focus in the coming months."
The October drive demonstrates Railway authorities' determined approach to maintaining order and safety on Mumbai's bustling suburban network, with promises of continued vigilance in the months ahead.
