Repeated incidents of vehicles dashing through closed railway level-cross gates and getting trapped inside have raised serious safety concerns in Kochi, endangering road users, railway staff, and train passengers. The Railway Protection Force (RPF) of the Thiruvananthapuram division has decided to enforce strict measures, including suspension of driving licenses, to immediately stop such violations.
Stringent Actions Against Violators
Drivers who ignore warning signals, attempt to cross after gates are closed, or forcibly break through railway gates will face criminal proceedings and recovery of damages caused to railway property. The increasing number of such incidents has become a matter of serious concern for authorities.
To reduce such incidents, the RPF, in coordination with all concerned departments—especially the Motor Vehicles Department—has intensified action against motorists violating safety rules at railway level crossings.
Circular from State Transport Commissioner
The State Transport Commissioner recently issued a circular directing strict action against drivers involved in railway level-cross gate dash incidents. The circular was issued after the RPF sought strong action against offenders whose reckless behavior endangered railway operations and public safety. “The licensing authorities have been instructed to initiate suspension of driving licenses of offenders based on reports received from railway authorities,” said a statement issued by the railways.
Alarming Statistics
In 2025, a total of 104 railway level-cross gate dash incidents were reported in the Thiruvananthapuram division. This year, 27 such incidents have been reported so far. Every gate dash incident affects train operations and causes avoidable delays to trains carrying thousands of passengers daily. After such incidents, trains are often delayed until railway staff inspect tracks, signaling systems, gates, and other safety equipment to ensure safe train movement. More importantly, such reckless acts can lead to major accidents, derailments, serious injuries, and loss of lives.
Root Causes of Violations
“Analysis of incidents shows that most violations happen due to rash driving, speeding near level crossings, impatience, and attempts to cross after warning signals are given or gates are closed,” the statement added.
The RPF continues to urge motorists to exercise caution and adhere to safety rules at railway level crossings to prevent tragedies and ensure smooth train operations.
