Waltair Division Steps Up Crowd Management Amid Summer Rush
With passenger traffic surging across railway stations during the summer vacation period, the Waltair Division of East Coast Railway has rolled out a series of measures to ensure orderly movement, enhanced amenities, and a smoother travel experience for commuters.
Special teams comprising Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel and ticket-checking staff have been pressed into service at major stations and on board long-distance trains to regulate passenger flow and prevent overcrowding — a recurring challenge during the peak holiday season.
Divisional Railway Manager Lalit Bohra has directed officials to maintain effective crowd regulation and operational coordination through a dedicated War Room, which is functioning round the clock to monitor and respond to ground-level developments in real time.
Particular attention has been paid to General Class travellers, who typically bear the brunt of seasonal overcrowding. Additional drinking water facilities have been arranged across stations in the Division, with free drinking water points set up at platform ends in coordination with non-governmental organisations. Passengers have been urged to maintain orderly queues while availing themselves of RO and chilled water facilities.
Railway authorities are actively encouraging passengers to embrace digital payment methods, QR code scanners, and the RailOne App for ticket booking — a move aimed at reducing congestion at ticketing counters and ensuring a hassle-free experience. Frequent public announcements and advance display of train positions on digital screens are also being made to keep passengers informed.
In a passenger-friendly initiative, the Division has introduced facilities such as bike rentals, Rapido pick-up points, and sleeping pods at stations, seeking to address last-mile connectivity concerns and add to overall convenience.
East Coast Railway is also operating Summer Special Trains to multiple destinations to cater to the heightened travel demand during the vacation season.
Officials underscored that the constellation of measures was aimed squarely at ensuring safe, comfortable, and hassle-free travel for passengers through the summer months.