KKN Gurugram Desk | As Holi approaches, the New Delhi Railway Station has implemented a series of stringent security measures to ensure the safety and comfort of passengers. The station, which is one of the busiest in India, has witnessed increased footfall, especially with people traveling to their hometowns for the festival. The railway authorities have made it clear that they are committed to maintaining order and ensuring a smooth travel experience during this peak time.

Enhanced Security and Crowd Control

To maintain order and enhance security, the railway administration has set up barricades around the station. These measures have been put in place to control the crowd and ensure that no large gatherings occur in any one spot. In addition to the physical barriers, a heavy presence of railway police has been stationed throughout the area.

The authorities have taken additional steps to regulate passenger movement by implementing a queue system. Passengers are being directed to stand in lines to prevent overcrowding. Special attention has been given to monitoring the foot-over bridges, with security personnel preventing people from gathering in one place for extended periods.

Restrictions on Sitting at Bridge and Stairs

One of the key security directives includes a strict prohibition on sitting on the bridges and stairs within the station premises. The railway administration has stated that anyone violating this rule will face legal action. This initiative is part of their broader strategy to ensure smooth movement and prevent any accidents or disturbances in the crowded station environment.

CCTV Surveillance for Enhanced Safety

To monitor the situation and provide quick responses in case of emergencies, the entire station area is under the surveillance of CCTV cameras. These cameras help authorities keep track of passenger movement and provide real-time footage to ensure that no untoward incidents occur. This additional surveillance also aims to deter any unruly behavior and provide a safe environment for all passengers.

Entry Restrictions to Prevent Unnecessary Crowd

In a bid to minimize unnecessary crowding, the railway authorities have placed restrictions on the sale of platform tickets. This measure is designed to prevent non-passengers from entering the station and contributing to overcrowding. Although this step has been widely appreciated for its focus on passenger safety, it has led to some challenges, especially with long queues at the ticket counters.

Temporary Waiting Areas for Passenger Comfort

In light of the upcoming rush, temporary waiting areas have been set up outside the New Delhi Railway Station to accommodate passengers. These waiting areas are equipped with essential amenities such as charging points, kiosks, and ticket counters. The station has also set up large boards displaying train schedules and platform numbers to help passengers navigate the station efficiently.

Mobile charging stations have been installed in these areas to ensure that passengers can keep their phones charged while waiting for their trains. Additionally, CCTV cameras have been installed within the waiting areas for added security.

Adequate Facilities for Passengers

To ensure that passengers have a comfortable experience, several basic facilities have been provided in the temporary waiting areas. These include clean toilets, food stalls, and water tankers to meet the essential needs of travelers. Security personnel have been deployed both inside and outside the waiting areas to address any emergencies and ensure that passengers feel safe during their wait.

Concerns Over Long Queues and Delays

Despite the efforts to improve passenger experience, there have been complaints from travelers about the long queues at the station. Passengers have reported waiting for extended periods to buy tickets and access necessary services. Women, children, and elderly passengers, in particular, have faced significant discomfort due to the long lines and lack of seating.

One female passenger expressed frustration over the fact that men and women were standing in the same line, which caused a lot of inconvenience. A commuter named Ajay from Inderlok shared his experience, mentioning that he had been waiting in line for over an hour, with no clear indication of when his turn would come.

The heat of the day further exacerbated the issue, with many passengers looking visibly tired and distressed. Some passengers have voiced their dissatisfaction with the system, although the railway authorities have managed to keep the situation under control.

New Gate Entry System to Manage Crowd Flow

In an effort to further manage the crowds and streamline passenger entry, the railway administration has introduced a new system. Passengers traveling on Platform No. 16 are now being directed to enter through Gate No. 10. This new rule aims to prevent congestion at any one gate and ensure that passengers can enter the station without undue delays.

Despite the implementation of this new system, many passengers still have to endure long waits. While security measures have been strengthened, the crowd control strategies have yet to eliminate some of the inconveniences travelers face.

The Role of the Police in Ensuring Smooth Operations

The police force has been stationed at strategic locations to maintain law and order. With the added responsibility of managing the large number of travelers, the police have been on high alert, ensuring that no untoward incidents disrupt the flow of operations at the station.

The police also play an essential role in ensuring that all rules are followed and that any violations are immediately addressed. With their constant presence, passengers have a greater sense of security, knowing that there is a team of professionals ready to respond in case of any emergencies.

Addressing the Issue of Ticketless Passengers

Another issue that has surfaced during the busy holiday season is the entry of ticketless passengers. While the entry process has been made stricter, there have been reports suggesting that some people have managed to enter the station without valid tickets. The railway administration is actively considering additional measures to address this problem and ensure that only legitimate passengers are allowed into the station.

Special Arrangements for Holi Travelers

To accommodate the large number of passengers expected during Holi, the railway authorities have made special arrangements. Temporary waiting areas outside the station are designed to cater to travelers’ needs, and additional trains have been scheduled to handle the influx of passengers. These measures are intended to ease the travel experience and ensure that passengers can reach their destinations safely and comfortably.

As Holi approaches, the New Delhi Railway Station is taking extensive measures to ensure the safety and comfort of its passengers. With enhanced security protocols, new entry systems, and the introduction of temporary waiting areas, the railway authorities are committed to minimizing disruptions and ensuring that the station runs smoothly. While challenges such as long queues and ticketless entry remain, the overall efforts to improve passenger experience are commendable.

The railway administration’s focus on passenger safety and convenience is evident in the steps they have taken, including the prohibition on sitting on bridges and stairs, the increased surveillance, and the efforts to control crowd flow. However, there is still work to be done to address some of the ongoing issues, particularly concerning long waiting times and overcrowding. The coming weeks will reveal how effectively these measures have managed to balance security with passenger convenience, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable Holi season for all travelers at New Delhi Railway Station.