Fines, jail for taking selfies near trains or tracks: East Coast Railway sets strict guidelines

The East Coast Railway (ECoR) has initiated a new safety campaign that aims to raise awareness among teenagers and college students about the dangers of taking selfies near railway tracks. This action comes in response to the growing number of tragic incidents resulting in young lives lost while attempting to take videos and selfies in hazardous railway areas.

Despite the appeal of photographing oneself at railway stations or on tracks for social media, these activities present significant risks. In recent years, there have been numerous accidents where young individuals, including students, have been fatally injured by passing trains due to such reckless behaviour. Many of these incidents occurred because people were not aware of their surroundings, such as incoming trains, live high-voltage equipment, and busy station areas.

In response, East Coast Railway has implemented stringent measures under Sections 147 and 153 of the Railway Act. Those found taking selfies near active tracks or trains face severe penalties, including hefty fines, potential legal action, or imprisonment. This enforcement highlights the crucial importance of prioritising safety and recognising that no photograph is worth jeopardising one's life.

The campaign is not only focused on enforcement but also educating the public. By instilling a sense of responsibility and awareness, ECoR aims to prevent future accidents and save lives.

Safety Guidelines to Remember:

1. No Selfies on Tracks: Never take selfies on or near railway tracks. The risk is not worth it. 
2. Legal Consequences: Taking selfies in dangerous locations can lead to fines or even imprisonment, so think before you click. 

A Call to Action for Students, Schools, and Parents:

3. ECoR reminds students and teenagers that your life is worth so much more than a social media post. Don’t let a fleeting moment of fame come at the cost of your safety. 

4. Schools & Colleges: ECoR encourages educational institutions to raise awareness about this issue. Organise awareness programmes, workshops, or talks to help students understand the real dangers of taking selfies in crowded places like railway stations and railway tracks.

5. Parents are appealed to counsel their children about these dangers. Help them make smart decisions online and teach them the importance of respecting safety guidelines when out in public spaces.

To make sure the message reaches as many people as possible, ECoR is using various platforms such as newspaper advertisements, TV spots, public announcements and social media campaigns. These efforts are designed to remind everyone, especially teenagers—that taking a selfie on or near railway tracks is never worth the risk.

Safety Starts with You: 

Railway stations are crowded places. With fast-moving trains, electrical equipment and the constant hustle of passengers, it is not unusual to get distracted. Public are appealed to make safe decisions.

“Remember, your moment of fame on social media shouldn’t come at the cost of your life or someone else’s”. Keep yourself and others safe by following these guidelines and always choosing safety over selfies at Railway premises, read the official release.