Deaths from railway track trespassing have surged over 7% in the Pune railway division from January to April this year, marking a worrying trend. In 2026, 113 incidents were reported during this time, resulting in 99 fatalities. This is a significant increase from the previous year, which recorded 111 incidents and 92 deaths.
Trespassing Statistics for Pune Railway Division
The alarming rise in fatalities has raised concerns among railway authorities and commuters alike. The current statistics indicate:
- Year: 2026
- Incidents: 113
- Deaths: 99
- Previous Year: 2025
- Incidents: 111
- Deaths: 92
- Percentage Increase: Over 7%
Recent Incidents and Safety Concerns
One incident involved a woman at Patas railway station who narrowly escaped injury by crawling under a stationary train. The train began moving unexpectedly, highlighting the dangers of trespassing.
Under Section 147 of the Railways Act, 1989, trespassing can lead to imprisonment for up to six months or fines, yet enforcement appears lacking. Members of the Divisional Railway Users’ Consultative Committee (DRUCC) have criticized the effectiveness of safety measures, calling for more robust solutions.
Efforts for Improvement
Priyanka Sharma, the divisional security commissioner, reported improvements in certain sections, such as Chinchwad and Pune-Ahmednagar. However, some incidents still relate to suicides on the tracks. To combat this, the railways have initiated ‘Project Disha,’ aimed at educating young people in vulnerable areas.
Despite plans to install 58 high-end CCTV cameras in key locations, only three have been implemented so far. Railway officials have also deployed three drones for enhanced surveillance.
Calls for Stricter Enforcement
Railway representatives assert that the increase in registered trespassing cases reflects stricter enforcement. So far, 975 cases have been logged this year compared to 534 last year during the same period. Former DRUCC member Nikhil Kachi emphasized the need for stricter punishments, advocating for imprisonment rather than only fines.
The situation at the Pune railway division continues to warrant serious attention, with ongoing discussions around effective measures to reduce these tragic incidents. Enhanced surveillance, education, and stricter penalties may prove vital to improving safety on railway tracks.
