Following the increase of coaches from 8 to 12 on the Mettupalayam-Coimbatore MEMU, RPF and GRP have launched strict monitoring to curb dangerous footboard travel and ensure passenger safety.

  • Coimbatore-Mettupalayam MEMU coaches augmented from 8 to 12.
  • RPF and GRP are actively monitoring stations to prevent footboard travel.
  • Violators face imprisonment up to 3 months or a ₹500 fine under Section 156.
  • Strict ₹2,500 penalty for men entering women-only compartments.

COIMBATORE: In a significant move to enhance passenger safety, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and the Government Railway Police (GRP) have stepped up surveillance to prevent footboard travel on the Coimbatore-Mettupalayam-Coimbatore MEMU passenger trains. This crackdown follows the recent augmentation of the train services, where the coach count was increased from eight to twelve.

Authorities have issued a stern warning to commuters: traveling on the footboard of a moving train is a punishable offense. To create a deterrent effect, passengers caught violating safety norms will be penalized under Section 156 of the Railway Act, which carries a penalty of up to three months of imprisonment or a fine of ₹500, or both.

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Historical Context and Passenger Demand

The decision to add four additional coaches comes after long-standing demands from the public in Mettupalayam, Karamadai, Periyanaickenpalayam, and Thudiyalur. For a significant period, the eight-coach configuration led to extreme overcrowding, forcing many passengers to risk their lives by hanging off the footboards. The Namma Mettupalayam Social Welfare Committee had played a pivotal role in this development by submitting multiple representations to the Railway authorities regarding the precarious situation of commuters.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that while increasing coach capacity addresses the root cause of overcrowding, it does not automatically eliminate unsafe traveling habits. The coordinated effort between the RPF and GRP is essential to transition passenger behavior from high-risk habits to disciplined commuting, ensuring that the benefits of the augmented train capacity are utilized safely.

Strict enforcement of railway bylaws is the only way to mitigate the rising risks of accidents caused by overcrowding and improper boarding.

Furthermore, there is a heightened focus on women's safety. Female police personnel are being deployed to monitor exclusive women's compartments. Under the updated regulations effective from July 1, 2026, any male passenger found in a women-only compartment will face an immediate on-the-spot fine of ₹2,500. Repeat offenders may also face debarment from rail travel for a specified duration.

Did You Know?: The Railway Protection Force (RPF) is a specialized force dedicated to protecting railway property and ensuring passenger security.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the penalty for traveling on the footboard?
Under Section 156 of the Railway Act, you can face up to 3 months in jail or a fine of ₹500.

2. How much is the fine for men entering women's coaches?
A fine of ₹2,500 is imposed on the spot for men found in women-only compartments.