Two minor boys travelling without tickets on Train No. 16585 Murudeshwar Express were safely rescued at Udupi railway station on Thursday morning, following timely intervention by railway and Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel.
The children, who had boarded the train from Mandya and were travelling in the general coach, were noticed during routine ticket inspection by Travelling Ticket Examiner (TTE) Shetty. Sensing that the boys were unaccompanied and vulnerable, he immediately alerted Assistant Sub-Inspector Surjith Singh of the RPF, Udupi.
Swift coordination ensures children’s safety
When the train arrived at Udupi at 10.54 am, RPF personnel including Sabitha, Surjith Kumar and Sunil were present on the platform. The team promptly intervened, ensuring the minors were safely escorted off the train without any distress.
Officials stated that the alertness of the TTE and the coordinated response by the RPF prevented potential risks to the children, highlighting the importance of vigilance in public transport systems.
The minors were later produced before the Child Help Desk at Udupi railway station after completion of necessary legal formalities, in accordance with established child protection protocols. Further procedures will be carried out as per guidelines to ensure their safety and welfare.
Commitment to child protection
In a statement, Konkan Railway commended the prompt and coordinated action of its staff. The authorities reiterated that safeguarding children and vulnerable passengers remains a top priority.
Railway officials also urged passengers to inform authorities immediately if they notice minors travelling alone or in distress, emphasising that community awareness plays a crucial role in preventing child endangerment.
The incident stands as a reminder of the critical role played by frontline railway personnel in upholding passenger welfare and child safety across Karnataka’s railway network.