Why Is Indian Railways Planning To Conduct Surprise Checks On Trains?

Indian Railways has now launched a nationwide drive against the sale of liquor and gutkha on trains by staff. Authorities will now conduct surprise checks on trains across the network. This move has been taken to enforce railway rules and stop these malpractices, which have become quite common in recent days. Here’s everything you need to know about it.

Indian Railways Launches Special Drive Against Liquor Sales On Trains

According to a report by The Hindu, there have been reports that onboard housekeeping staff, pantry and catering staff, and vendors were involved in the illegal provision or sale of liquor onboard trains, which is against railway rules. Not just liquor, there were reports that the staff was also selling gutkha along with other prohibited items on running trains. Now, to curb these malpractices, Indian Railways has taken a big decision.

A special drive has been launched against liquor and gutkha sales on trains. Instructions have been given by the authorities to senior officials to conduct surprise checks on trains across the network. These checks will be conducted by special teams of Indian Railways. Reportedly, passengers’ feedback was also taken to assess the conduct and behaviour of onboard staff on running trains.

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Action To Be Taken Against People Who Violate Rules

According to the report by The Hindu, the Railway Board has now sent an advisory to general managers of all zonal railways. The advisory focuses on how such activities are strictly prohibited. They also constitute a serious violation of the terms and conditions of contracts operating on Indian Railways.

Officers have been deployed from the Railway Protection Force along with officials from the mechanical and commercial departments of the railways. These officers will check pantry cars, linen maintenance staff and catering personnel to find illegal possession of liquor, gutkha and cigarettes. People found involved in such illegal activities can face strict action and even termination.

You should know that the consumption of alcohol or smoking is completely banned on trains. However, there have been complaints of some passengers consuming alcohol and smoking, especially on long-distance trains. This is why Indian Railways officials have now launched this special drive.

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