The Railway Protection Force (RPF) has made thorough preparations to enhance the safety of women traveling alone. They have established the ‘Meri Saheli’ team to assist women, ensuring their secure journey and addressing their concerns.
Many women, including those working in remote areas during festivals, college students, and elderly women, often travel alone by trains. The ‘Meri Saheli’ team has been instructed to gather information about such women.
Collaboration with Railways for Enhanced Safety
To ensure the safety of women passengers, the RPF will collaborate with the railway authorities. This partnership aims to provide information about the starting and ending stations before women board or deboard the train.
During this process, the team will also collect the women’s mobile numbers and home addresses. Additionally, the team will be stationed at intermediate stations where the train halts, maintaining contact with female passengers. This initiative was started in September 2020.
Meri Saheli Team: Empowering Women’s Security
The primary responsibility of the ‘Meri Saheli’ team is to collect information about women traveling on long-distance trains. This information includes the Passenger Name Record (PNR) number, coach number, and train details.
After contacting these women, the team documents their concerns and issues. The team also provides emergency assistance to young women, whether it’s escorting a pregnant woman to the hospital or dealing with unruly passengers inside the train.
The ‘Meri Saheli’ team, operating under the Ambala Rail Division, has established three teams to ensure women’s safety during their journeys.
Officer’s Perspective on Meri Saheli Team
According to Neetish Sharma, Senior Divisional Security Commissioner in Ambala, the ‘Meri Saheli’ team has been highly commendable in its efforts. This initiative is a significant convenience for women traveling alone by train.
During festivals, the ‘Meri Saheli’ team will remain fully active, ensuring the safety and security of female passengers throughout their journeys.
