Title - RPF gives track death lessons at schools,colleges

Nitasha Natu TNN

Mumbai: To curb trespassing,the Railway Protection Force (RPF) on the Western line has drawn up a list of chronic spots and launched a lecture series in schools and colleges located around it.The aim,say officials,is not only to make youths aware of the danger involved,but also to ensure that they go home and dissuade their parents from taking a short cut across the tracks.
According to GRP statistics,1,447 were killed due to trespassing of the total 2,551 accidental deaths on railway lines till September this year,which comes to 57%.
The chronic locations are Jogeshwari,Kandivli,Khar,Mahim,Virar,Nalasopara,Dadar and Elphinstone Road stations.In several instances,commuters,particularly youngsters who plug in earphones while walking have lost lives unable to hear the motorman honking, said a RPF official.Hopping across tracks to change platforms or jumping over track dividers is observed routinely.To discourage this,we decided to start a series of lectures in schools and colleges.We feel if youngsters are convinced,a bulk of the problem is solved.
The series began earlier this week.RPF personnel visit institutions and get in touch with the management.At least two personnel equipped with data and facts present the lecture.Transport experts say that more infrastructure projects which will provide alternate and quicker transportationare needed.The RPF also sought GRP help for the drive.