Mumbai-21 july-2025
In light of the recent Hon’ble High Court ruling and subsequent media queries, regarding the security measures undertaken by Western Railway, post major bomb blast incidents, and the progressive enhancement of security infrastructure over the years, along with key projects currently in the pipeline:
Security Enhancements Post-Bomb Blasts:
Following the major bomb blast incidents, especially 11 July’ 2006 Mumbai suburban serial train blasts and other subsequent threats, Indian Railways have significantly overhauled its security strategy in coordination with RPF, GRP, Intelligence agencies, and local administration. The steps taken include:
• Formation of Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) at major stations.
• Deployment of Bomb Detection & Disposal Squads (BDDS).
• Increased RPF-GRP joint patrolling in sensitive areas.
• Enhanced intelligence coordination with State and Central agencies.
• Special focus on anti-sabotage checks before peak hours.
• Random baggage screening at high-risk stations and trains.
Progressive Measures Implemented Over the Years:
1. Integrated Security System (ISS):
o Launched to strengthen surveillance through CCTV coverage, baggage scanners, and bomb detection devices.
o 3048 CCTV installed across Mumbai Suburban stations.
o Out of total 451 ladies coaches, 305 CCTV installed in 146 suburban local trains.
o High-definition IP-based CCTVs installed at major stations.
o Real-time video feeds integrated with station control rooms and monitored by trained RPF personnel.
2. Baggage Scanning & Screening:
o 05 X-ray baggage scanners installed at selected sensitive stations of Mumbai Division.
o Door Frame Metal Detectors (DFMDs) and Hand-Held Metal Detectors (HHMDs) used at entry points.
o Total 217 HHMDs provided at important stations of Mumbai Suburban.
o 16 DFMD installed at selected sensitive stations of Mumbai Suburban.
o Random checking of luggage through Baggage scanner and DFMD at important stations is being done.
3. Facial Recognition System (FRS):
o Integrated with 470 CCTVs for identification of wanted/criminal elements over Mumbai Suburban stations.
4. Deployment of Canine Squads:
o 07 sniffer Dog squads regularly deployed for sniffing and bomb detection duties across major stations of Mumbai Suburban.
o Regular checking at stations and coaches of important trains are being done at important stations through K-9 Dogs to prevent/detect carriage of explosive items.
5. Train Escorting:
o RPF escort parties provided in over 64 trains daily, with a focus on vulnerable sections.
o “Meri Saheli” teams have been deployed in 08 trains under Mumbai Division to ensure the safety of women passengers. On average, assistance is being provided to approximately 144 female passengers daily.
6. Drone Surveillance:
o Conducted in select yards and stations for aerial monitoring over Mumbai Suburban.
Key Projects in Pipeline / Recent Upgrades:
1. CCTV Coverage Expansion:
o 652 Non STQC cameras which were installed under VSS phase –I, are proposed to be shifted from 19 stations Mumbai Suburban.
o Additional 407 cameras are proposed in revised survey of VSS works.
o Real-time monitoring from Central Command Centres (Zonal/Divisional level).