
Eye from the sky, action on the ground: Railways’ new security cycle. The increasing incidents of stone pelting on running trains across the country had posed a big threat to the safety of passengers, but now the Railway Protection Force (RPF) has prepared a ‘digital shield’ against it. Now trains are not only running on the tracks, but they are also monitored by drones from the sky. According to Senior Divisional Security Commissioner Ashutosh Pandey, deployment of drones in sensitive areas has not only reduced crimes but has also brought great success in catching criminals red-handed. Real-time monitoring through drones has made it impossible for stone pelters to hide.
Changes seen in figures: Huge jump of 146% in arrest rate The latest figures of RPF are telling the success story of this new strategy. There has been a decline in the incidents of stone pelting in 2026 as compared to the year 2025, while there has been a historical increase of 146% in the arrest of criminals. Especially in highly sensitive sections like Adarsh Nagar-Narela-Panipat, the use of drones has proved to be a game changer. As soon as any suspicious activity is noticed, the action team is immediately alerted, due to which the criminals fail to escape from the spot.
Drunken or naughty? Who is behind these incidents? Investigation has revealed that children living near the railway tracks are behind many of the incidents. Officials say that due to lack of awareness and education, these children throw stones unknowingly or as mischief, which can prove fatal for the passengers. Instead of taking legal action against children in such cases, Railways has emphasized on improving and making them aware. However, strict action is being taken under the Railway Act against elements committing deliberate crimes. This dual strategy of the Railways—surveillance with modern technology on the one hand and social awareness on the other—has made trains safer than before.
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