The Ministry of Railway Development has issued a strict warning against hawking and unauthorized crossings on railway lines, emphasizing the severe risks and legal consequences associated with such actions.
As part of its ongoing railway safety campaign, the Ministry reminded the public that “hawking on the railway line is a crime” and urged both hawkers and pedestrians to follow safety guidelines to prevent accidents and disruptions to train services.
Highlighting the purpose of railway tracks, the Ministry stated, “Railway lines are designated for train movement only, and any unauthorized presence on or near the tracks poses a significant risk to life.”
Hawkers operating on or near the tracks not only endanger themselves but also obstruct train movement, which could lead to fatal incidents.
The Ministry referenced Section 85 of the Railways Act 2008, Act 779, which stipulates that individuals whose “willful, negligent, or reckless conduct” obstructs or endangers railway operations may face fines up to 2,500 penalty units, imprisonment for up to ten years, or both.
To promote safe practices, the Ministry provided essential safety guidelines, urging pedestrians to “cross only at designated points,” such as underpasses, overpasses, or official level crossings, and to avoid distractions like wearing headphones or texting near railway tracks, as these can prevent individuals from noticing an approaching train.
The Ministry also stressed the importance of educating children on railway safety, advising, “Teach children not to play on and around the railway line.” Additionally, the public is reminded to “respect all warning signs and signals,” including flashing red lights that signal an approaching train.
In a final message, the Ministry urged commuters to wait for level crossing barriers to lift and lights to turn off before crossing, adding, “Together, let’s make our railway lines safer for everyone.”
This call to action aligns with the Ministry’s broader efforts to enhance railway safety awareness and reduce accidents across the nation.
