228 railway track deaths accident deaths in 8 months: SR's Chennai division issues safety advisory

CHENNAI: The Chennai Division of Southern Railway has issued a stern public appeal for safety following an alarming number of 'trespassing' and accident-related deaths on its network this year.

According to an official press release, a staggering 228 people lost their lives and 34 individuals were injured while 'trespassing' on railway tracks within the division's jurisdiction between January and August 2025. In response, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) has intensified its awareness and enforcement drives, it said.

The division is actively combating unsafe practices through a multi-pronged approach, including widespread public awareness campaigns using posters and audio announcements, educational outreach programmes in schools and colleges, and enhanced on-ground monitoring.

It listed critical safety guidelines urging the public to use only designated Foot Over Bridges (FOBs), subways, and level crossings to cross railway tracks and avoid taking shortcuts.

It also requested the public not to trespass on railway tracks under any circumstances, not board or alight from moving trains, and refrain from dangerous footboard travel.

It further said people must always stand behind the yellow safety line on platforms and be cautious of the gap between the train and the platform, and importantly, avoid distractions like mobile phones or earphones near tracks.

The railway authorities emphasized that these unsafe practices not only endanger precious lives and cause immense grief to families but also severely disrupt train operations.