Prayagraj: In response to the recent stone-pelting incident targeting the Lucknow-Delhi Swarna Shatabdi Express in Firozabad, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) is set to deploy solar-powered CCTV cameras at vulnerable locations across the Prayagraj Division of North Central Railway. This initiative aims to improve monitoring and enable swift identification of miscreants.
Enhanced Surveillance at Black Spots
Senior Divisional Security Commissioner of RPF Prayagraj, Deepak Kumar Azad, stated that the RPF has intensified efforts to identify sensitive stretches within the division where trains frequently halt, cross each other, or where railway boundary walls are damaged. These locations will be designated as 'black spots' and placed under enhanced surveillance.
“Depending on operational requirements, solar-powered CCTV cameras would be deployed at such locations to monitor suspicious activities and deter anti-social elements,” Azad explained.
The cameras may not be permanently installed. Instead, they will be used flexibly and relocated based on requirements and threat assessments. Railway officials believe this approach will optimize resources while ensuring effective monitoring of vulnerable areas.
Community Policing Initiatives
Officials confirmed that discussions have already taken place with the Divisional Railway Manager regarding the plan. Alongside technological interventions, the RPF is also strengthening its community policing efforts. People living near railway tracks, including villagers and locals, are being encouraged to cooperate with railway authorities and report any suspicious movements or activities.
Officials emphasized that community participation, combined with modern surveillance systems, will play a crucial role in enhancing railway security and preventing incidents that endanger passenger safety and railway operations.
About the Author
Rajeev Mani has been working in TOI's Prayagraj bureau for the past two decades, covering beats from education to excise, taxation, and aviation. He loves traveling, singing, and meeting people, especially academics. He has extensively covered two Ardh Kumbhs (2007 and 2019) and two Maha Kumbhs (2013 and 2025), along with various assembly and general elections.
