Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw recently disclosed that a total of 4,549 individuals have been arrested for their involvement in stone-pelting incidents on trains across India since 2023. The report underscores a rising problem that has long plagued Indian Railways, as these acts of violence not only pose a significant safety risk to passengers but also damage valuable public property. Vaishnaw’s statement comes as part of an ongoing effort by the government to curb the menace of stone pelting, which has continued to disrupt train operations and impact the safety and well-being of passengers.
The Scope of the Problem
Stone pelting on trains is a recurrent issue that has been affecting the Indian Railways for years. These incidents typically occur when miscreants throw stones at moving trains, leading to damage to windows, train compartments, and in some cases, even injuring or killing passengers. Railway authorities have described this practice as not only a safety hazard but also a serious threat to the integrity of the railway system. Despite extensive efforts to curtail this criminal activity, stone pelting remains one of the most persistent challenges faced by Indian Railways.
According to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, the authorities have adopted a zero-tolerance approach to these incidents. The staggering number of arrests — 4,549 individuals since 2023 — highlights the severity of the problem. The data revealed that stone pelting incidents have occurred across various parts of the country, with certain states being identified as hotspots for such offenses. Vaishnaw emphasized that the central government is committed to taking stringent action against those who indulge in this dangerous activity.
Causes Behind Stone-Pelting Incidents
Stone pelting on trains is often linked to a variety of social and economic factors. While some individuals indulge in this behavior out of sheer mischief, others are driven by factors such as frustration with the system, anger towards specific trains or train services, or sometimes even as a form of protest. Additionally, the rise of stone pelting incidents near densely populated areas, including urban slums and rural towns, has also been attributed to a lack of awareness about the consequences of such actions.
In some instances, miscreants may target trains in areas that are poorly policed or lacking in surveillance. The situation is exacerbated by the sheer speed and unpredictability of trains, which makes it difficult for authorities to effectively control and monitor stone-pelting activities. As a result, the damage caused by these incidents is often significant, both in terms of the cost of repairs and the disruption to services.
The Government’s Response
In response to the growing menace of stone pelting, the Indian Railways has intensified its efforts to combat the issue through a combination of preventive measures and strict law enforcement. The government has bolstered its surveillance infrastructure by deploying more CCTV cameras along railway tracks and in train compartments. These cameras are being strategically placed in vulnerable locations to capture evidence of offenders and deter potential perpetrators.
In addition, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) has been actively engaged in patrolling areas identified as high-risk zones for stone pelting. Vaishnaw noted that the RPF, alongside local law enforcement agencies, has stepped up its vigilance in several states where such incidents are most prevalent. The government has also increased the penalties for stone pelting, ensuring that those caught are held accountable for their actions. Offenders face imprisonment and fines, with some cases being prosecuted under severe criminal charges due to the potential danger posed to passengers.
Further, the Indian Railways has been working to improve community engagement to prevent stone pelting. Public awareness campaigns are being conducted to educate people about the dangers of such activities and the negative consequences for everyone involved. These campaigns aim to change the perception of stone pelting as a trivial act of mischief and highlight the serious repercussions it has on public safety.
Technological Solutions and Future Plans
The Indian Railways is also exploring advanced technological solutions to address stone pelting incidents. New initiatives, such as the installation of shockproof glass in train windows, are being introduced to minimize damage from stone pelting. These windows are designed to withstand impact, thereby reducing the risk of injuries to passengers. Additionally, the government is considering the use of drones for surveillance along critical railway corridors to monitor and prevent such incidents in real time.
Moreover, the government has proposed increasing the deployment of automated tracking systems to detect suspicious activities near railway tracks. By enhancing the capability of surveillance systems, the Indian Railways hopes to identify and apprehend offenders more efficiently.
The Impact on Passenger Safety and Rail Operations
The consequences of stone pelting incidents go beyond mere material damage. In several cases, stone pelting has resulted in severe injuries to passengers, causing concern over the safety of travelers. Passengers sitting near windows are particularly vulnerable, with stones often causing broken glass and resulting in cuts, bruises, or even more severe injuries.
Beyond the direct physical risks, these incidents disrupt train services and cause delays, which can have cascading effects on the entire railway network. Trains may need to be halted for repairs, and operations may be delayed for hours, creating a ripple effect across the network. This not only causes inconvenience to passengers but also results in substantial financial losses for the Indian Railways.
The alarming number of arrests made for stone pelting on trains since 2023 — 4,549 individuals — highlights the urgency of addressing this growing issue. While the Indian Railways has made significant strides in curbing stone pelting through stricter enforcement and technological innovations, much work remains to be done to ensure the safety and security of passengers.
Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw’s statement reflects the government’s unwavering commitment to combating this problem and making train travel safer for millions of passengers. With continued investment in surveillance, community awareness, and stronger legal measures, the Indian Railways hopes to reduce these dangerous incidents and maintain the trust of the public in the railway system.