7th GRP Chiefs Conference Strengthens Railway Security

The 7th All India Conference of Government Railway Police (GRP) Chiefs concluded at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, under the convenorship of the Railway Protection Force (RPF). The conference was presided over by Director General, RPF, Ms Sonali Mishra, and attended by Directors General of Police, Additional Directors General and senior GRP officers from various States and Union Territories. The Chairman-cum-CEO and Members of the Railway Board were also present.

The conference focused on evolving a coordinated programme of action to enhance passenger safety and secure railway infrastructure amid emerging threats.

Addressing Emerging Security Challenges

Indian Railways, due to its vast geographical network, heavy passenger footfall and open-access architecture, remains vulnerable to organised crime, narcotics trafficking, vandalism, stone pelting and potential sabotage. The deliberations emphasised the need for a holistic security framework integrating intelligence, technology, field coordination and community engagement.

Improving infrastructure and facilities for GRP personnel was also discussed to strengthen operational readiness.

Technology-Driven Security Measures

Participants highlighted the adoption of modern tools such as Facial Recognition System (FRS)-enabled CCTV cameras, AI-based video analytics and drone surveillance. The DG/RPF outlined ongoing technological upgrades aimed at better identification of criminals and faster detection of unlawful activities.

The emphasis was on integrating technology with ground-level policing for enhanced surveillance and rapid response.

Roadmap to Combat Drug Trafficking

A major focus area was curbing drug trafficking through the railway network. A presentation by a senior Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) officer stressed proactive surveillance and real-time intelligence sharing to dismantle trafficking networks.

Important Facts for Exams

• GRP functions under State Police, while RPF operates under the Ministry of Railways.
• FRS technology is used for real-time identification through CCTV networks.
• Narcotics Control Bureau functions under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
• Indian Railways is one of the world’s largest railway networks by route length.

Strengthening Coordination and Preparedness

Regular mock drills and scenario-based training modules were recommended to enhance preparedness in first response, evacuation, crowd control and incident management. Discussions also addressed stone pelting and sabotage, with emphasis on community outreach and deterrent legal measures. The conference reinforced coordination between State Police and RPF to build a resilient, technology-enabled railway security system.