Attempts to derail train, arson plans; 10 years of Indian railway

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Even though cases surge high regarding attacks on trains with more directed at women, the central and state government remain stagnant with no works in progress to allay the concerns. The state government in 2014 October asked centre for reforms to facelift the railway to par in security apparatus with airports in the country. The request also asked the RPF to carry on with cases rather than adding the burden on local police officers.

The central government gave no nod to the state's suggestions. The assessment said the state police officers to move on with criminal procedures, case registration, and investigation, while the RPF will cover the security work in railway stations.

In ten years' time, more than 100 attempts were made to derail trains. In West Bengal alone, trains being attacked and loco pilots being hurled beer bottles have turned into a new normal. In 2010 July, the brake feeder pipe of the Nilambur-Shornur passenger train was tried cutting down.

Attacks on women have seen a gradual rise even with many reforms being in place to stop such moves. The infamous Soumya death in Shornur made the patrolling strong but the lack of camera surveillance is still a boon for assailants to carry forward their devious plans.