Finally, Railway Police starts community policing

Kochi: The Janayatra Suraksha Committee policing mooted by the Government Railway Police a year ago, along the lines of the successful ‘Janamaithri’, has finally taken off.

“As part of this, a committee including the GRP, commuters and other railway beneficiaries has been formed in all stations across the state. The aim is to include the active participation of rail passengers in preventing and reporting crimes,” a top GRP official said.

A meet in this regard was held on Friday last and the Ernakulam samiti alone has 16 members that include members of the All Kerala Railway Users Association.

In addition to the Emergency No (9846200100), the samiti has been allocated officers’ numbers to report activities of a suspicious nature and to ensure prompt action. As part of the scheme, the members will be made aware of the various criminal activities prevalent in trains and railway stations. The primary aim is to cut down on crime against women and children.

“We’re only happy to help out the railway police who is fighting the problem of acute staff shortage. We’ve already taken part in the review meeting held to brief us about the kind of assistance to be provided to the cops,” said Paul K.J.Manvettom, president of All Kerala Railway Users Association.