Lesson from Delhi mishap: No platform change in CR at last minute

Taking lessons from the stampede at Delhi railway station in which two people died and eight injured,the Central Railway has instructed its staff to not change platforms at the last moment. “A decision has been taken to not change platforms at the last minute to avoid any confusion. This is applicable to both the suburban and long distance trains on Central Railway,” said Shriniwas Mudgerikar,chief spokesperson,CR.

For long distance trains,the CR has asked the Railway Protection Force to be present at the platforms and guide passengers. “We have instructed the RPF and our commercial staff to remain at the station whenever a long distance train arrives or departs. From now on,the RPF personnel would be present to manage the crowd. In case of unreserved compartment,the commercial staff officials would be present in the compartment to help the passengers,” said Mudgerikar.

Railway officials,however,said that given the heavy rail traffic,it may not be always possible to stick to its decision. But it has instructed its staff to announce the change in platform well in advance so that there is no sudden rush among the commuters. “Even if we are changing the platform,we have instructed our staff to make announcement well in advance to avoid chaos,” added Mudgerikar.

Changing the platforms not only creates panic,but in the past has resulted in commuters resorting to violence. Last year,commuters at the Borivali station became agitated when a train was diverted to another platform.