The police’s concerns were prompted by two incidents earlier this year involving mysterious graffiti found on train coaches parked at the Yamuna Bank Yard and near Shahdara Metro Station in East Delhi
The Delhi Police has called on the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) to enhance security measures across its network, focusing on preventing breaches and suicides within metro premises, according to sources familiar with the matter. In a recent letter to the DMRC, the police highlighted five key areas for improvement: the installation of CCTV cameras along railway tracks, better lighting in poorly lit areas, removal of trees near station boundaries, increased deployment of security guards, and the installation of platform screen doors (PSDs) at all stations.
The police’s concerns were prompted by two incidents earlier this year involving mysterious graffiti found on train coaches parked at the Yamuna Bank Yard and near Shahdara Metro Station in East Delhi. The vandals, who remain at large, allegedly breached security late at night to spray paint the wagons with multiple colors and words like “Demo” and “AAA.” Despite the presence of cameras in the area, none captured the suspects, underscoring the need for enhanced surveillance.
The letter also pointed to frequent cable thefts from metro tracks, which have caused significant disruptions. A recent incident at Jhilmil Metro Station in northeast Delhi led to the disruption of services at four stations due to the theft of signaling cables. Over the past four years, more than 200 cases of cable theft from metro tracks and premises have been reported, highlighting an ongoing security challenge.
In response to these incidents, an anonymous officer suggested that the installation of CCTV cameras along metro tracks and improved lighting in dark areas could bolster security. The officer also noted that in one of the graffiti incidents, it was suspected that the vandals had climbed a tree to gain access to the train, further emphasizing the need to address vulnerable points around metro stations.
In addition to these concerns, the Delhi Police has urged the DMRC to install platform screen doors at the remaining 120 metro stations that currently lack this feature. With only 70 of Delhi’s 190 metro stations equipped with PSDs, police sources have pointed to the rising number of suicide cases as a pressing reason for their installation. PSDs have proven effective in preventing such tragedies, and the police believe that extending this safety measure across the entire metro network is crucial.
As the DMRC considers the recommendations, the Delhi Police’s letter underscores the importance of proactive measures to ensure the safety and security of metro passengers and infrastructure.
