Special security for women in trains

New Delhi: Railway Minister Lalu Prasad has said that Railway Protection Force (RPF) will be modernised to strengthen passenger security in trains and "special arrangements" will be made for women.

"RPF is deploying escort parties for about 1,000 passengers trains everyday," he said presenting the Rail Budget in the Lok Sabha.

Access control and security at about 600 stations will be provided through RPF, the Minister said.

To provide security to women passengers, the Railways will also special squads in compartments reserved for women passengers in suburban rails areas also.

"In view of the important role of the RPF in the security of passengers, the modernisation of the forces is being given special attention," he said.

On Republic Day in 2005, seven RPF employees were honoured for exceptional work with bravery medals by President A P J Abdul Kalam.