Bhubaneswar, Jan 31: The East Coast Railway (ECoR) has launched a strict safety campaign to curb the rising number of fatal accidents caused by people taking selfies near railway tracks. The individuals caught trespassing on railway tracks for selfies can face severe legal consequences.
Under Sections 147 & 153 of the Railway Act, violators can be fined, prosecuted, or even imprisoned.
An increasing trend of teenagers and college students attempting risky stunts for social media, the railways are urging everyone to prioritise safety over fleeting online fame.
In recent months, there have been several tragic incidents where youths lost their lives while attempting to capture videos and selfies near moving trains.
The glamour of social media likes and shares has led many to underestimate the dangers of railway tracks, resulting in fatal consequences.
ECoR officials emphasise that taking photos or videos at railway stations and on tracks is not just dangerous—it is illegal.
The constant movement of trains and the unpredictability of railway operations make tracks a high-risk zone for accidents.
To prevent further tragedies, the ECoR has launched an extensive awareness campaign targeting students, social media users, and the general public.
The initiative includes:
-Educational programs in schools and colleges
-Public announcements at railway stations
-Newspaper and TV advertisements highlighting real-life incidents
-Social Media awareness drives using hashtags and digital campaigns
