Chennai: In the wake of a horrifying crime involving the assault of a pregnant woman on a moving train, the Southern Railway has ramped up security measures in ladies’ coaches. The railway authorities have announced the deployment of women police officers in designated women-only compartments to enhance passenger safety and prevent unauthorized entry by men.
The tragic incident took place last Thursday on the Coimbatore-Tirupati Intercity Express near Katpadi railway station. A pregnant woman was brutally attacked, raped, and thrown off the train, leading to serious injuries. Tragically, her unborn child did not survive. Law enforcement officials swiftly responded to the case, arresting the accused, K. Heamaraj, a resident of KV Kuppam in Vellore.
To address security concerns, Southern Railway Police IG A.G. Babu has confirmed that female police personnel will now be deployed at railway stations to monitor the entry into ladies’ coaches. The Railway Police (RP) will work in close coordination with the Railway Protection Force (RPF) to conduct inspections and enforce safety protocols on trains.
During a recent security operation, authorities questioned 275 individuals at railway stations and onboard trains based on suspicious behavior. As a result, 12 cases were filed against offenders. Additionally, passengers, especially women traveling alone, have been encouraged to report any safety concerns via the emergency helpline 139, which will facilitate prompt assistance from railway security personnel.
With these new initiatives, the Southern Railway aims to ensure safer travel for women and reinforce strict measures against any security violations in train compartments reserved for female passengers.
