RPF rescues over 800 children, disrupts traffickers and ensures passenger safety

New Delhi [India], October 18 (ANI): The Railway Protection Force (RPF) has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to railway security and passenger safety, with an array of commendable achievements in the month of September under the operation ‘Nanhe Faristey’.

Under this mission,’ RPF has rescued 895 children, including 573 boys and 322 girls, who were in need of care and protection, read the Ministry of Railways press release.

The children were reunited with the concerned authorities and subsequently sent to their families. This operation has played a pivotal role in reuniting children who were separated from their families due to various reasons.

Notably, the fight against human trafficking has always been a matter of concern for the Railway authorities. Anti-Human Trafficking Units (AHTUs) operate at the post level (Thana level) across the Indian Railways. In September 2023, these units were instrumental in the rescue of 29 individuals from the clutches of traffickers, leading to the arrest of 14 traffickers, the press release said.

The release said that 265 passengers who were saved by the police were at risk of being run over by trains on platforms and railway tracks. The feat was achieved under ‘Operation Jeevan Raksha,’ which focuses on ensuring the safety of passengers in distress.

For the security and well-being of women passengers, the RPF has launched “Meri Saheli,” an initiative aimed at providing security to lady passengers, particularly those travelling alone or those who are vulnerable to crime, read the press release.

During September 2023, 231 ‘Meri Saheli’ teams attended 13,071 trains and provided security assurance to 421,198 lady passengers. Additionally, RPF took action against 6,033 individuals who were found traveling in coaches reserved for ladies.

Taking firm action against touts and under ‘Operation Uplabdh,’ the RPF arrested 405 touts during September 2023 and seized future tickets valued at Rs 36.43 lakhs, read the press release.

Operation “NARCOS” also had a significant impact, with 70 individuals arrested and a seizure of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) valued at Rs 2.65 crores.

The apprehended criminals were handed over to empowered agencies for further legal action.

In response to security-related complaints from distressed passengers, the RPF has established an Emergency Response Support System through the Rail Madad Portal and helpline number 139 (integrated with Emergency Response Support System No. 112), read the release.

During September 2023, more than 28,000 complaints were received and addressed with appropriate necessary action taken to resolve them.