With rising incidents of violence against female commuters, an attempt is being made to install panic buttons in Mumbai’s suburban train system. With a view to strengthen security of women passengers in trains, Central Railway (CR) has introduced ‘panic button’ system to alert officials in case of an emergency.

The panic button, located below the luggage rack in the experimental 12-coach train, has been already put into service.

Currently, women passengers have to depend on either on helpline numbers by call or SMS, or on chain-pulling in emergency situation, but with this system immediate action can be taken.

Briefing on the feature, a CR press release said “An audio visual indication will also be received by the motorman and crew and the control room. A reset button has been provided with the audio visual alarm. This button can be used to put off the alarm indication system.” Meanwhile, railway experts said it is welcome move by the Central Railway in ensuring safety of women passengers.

Rajiv Singal, former member of Divisional Railway Users Consultative Committee, said, “This is good that Central Railway has gone one step ahead to instill a sense of security among women commuters. But most importantly, they must ensure that the service is properly maintained.”

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