The Indian Railways has intensified efforts to enhance passenger safety and protect railway infrastructure, with more than 52,000 arrests recorded between 2021 and 2025, the government informed Parliament. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the measures reflect a stronger focus on security and law enforcement across the vast rail network.

According to the minister, a total of 52,494 individuals were arrested under the Railway Property (Unlawful Possession) Act, 1966 during the five-year period. Legal action was initiated against 50,432 offenders, with cases filed in courts including Special Railway Magistrate courts and district courts. The data underscores the scale of enforcement activities aimed at curbing theft and unlawful possession of railway property.

The report also highlighted persistent challenges such as stone pelting on trains, which continues to pose risks to passenger safety. Between 2021 and 2025, 12,157 such incidents were reported, leading to the arrest of 8,441 individuals by the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and the Government Railway Police (GRP). Authorities have been working to address these incidents through stricter enforcement and increased vigilance.

Also Read: 41 Tigers Died in Maharashtra in 2025; Forest Minister Details Anti-Poaching Measures

Despite these concerns, derailments linked to sabotage or miscreant activities have remained minimal. Vaishnaw informed Parliament that only three such incidents were recorded over the past five years, occurring in the Waltair Division of East Coast Railway, Jhansi Division of North Central Railway, and Chennai Division of Southern Railway. Officials view this as evidence of improved preventive measures and coordination among agencies.

To strengthen security further, Indian Railways has implemented a multi-layered approach involving coordination between the RPF, GRP, state police, and intelligence agencies. Measures include regular state-level security review meetings, deployment of specialised intelligence units such as the Crime Intelligence Branch and Special Intelligence Branch, and enhanced patrolling in vulnerable sections of railway tracks. Surveillance has also been upgraded with the use of drones and solar-powered CCTV systems.

The government has additionally focused on prevention through public awareness campaigns targeting communities living near railway tracks. Citizens are being educated about the dangers and legal consequences of tampering with railway property or placing obstructions on tracks, and are encouraged to report suspicious activities promptly. Officials say these combined efforts aim to ensure safer and more secure rail travel across the country.

Also Read: Opposition Stages Parliament Protest Demanding Action on National LPG Crisis