ECoR to intensify action against unauthorised vending in trains

Bhubaneswar: As part of the zero-tolerance policy, East Coast Railway has launched the second phase of special drive to intensify strict action against unauthorised vending in trains and in Railway premises.

The first phase of the anti-hawking drive was started in July-2019 and has borne good results.

Anticipating increased presence of hawkers on the train during the Puja vacation, East Coast Railway directed its officials including Commercial and RPF teams to take strict action against the unauthorised hawkers.

The drive is being led by Principal Chief Security Commissioner Raja Ram.

In view of Puja rush, it is generally seen that the unauthorised hawkers start selling edibles, books and toys on the trains. The number of passengers depending on Indian Railways for family tours and for vacation journeys is on the increase in the Puja season and this may prompt many hawkers to choose train as their vending place.

ECoR is conducting special surprise drives to get rid of this menace. These hawkers do not have license or permit to engage in selling goods on the train or at the platforms.

ECoR had launched Special Drive in June-July, 2019 and taken action against unauthorised hawkers and the selling by unauthorised hawking has reduced. The situation has now changed drastically and passengers can easily purchase goods from the licensed vendors on the station.

Apart from this, the threat & possibility of the presence of anti-social elements among the hawkers also is a concern for the officials. Many chain snatchers and thieves board the train in the guise of hawkers and target the passengers.

Lifting of valuables from passengers is sometimes repeated in trains and this is a matter of concern for Railways. Most of such offences are committed by people who move around in the guise of hawkers. Railway premises and trains see an increase of garbage due to illegal hawking of various items.

The officials have also been advised to intensify action against Beggars and alms-seekers boarding the train and entering the railway station premise. The beggars are being removed from the railway station premises.

ECoR has also urged passengers to provide their support for eradicating unauthorised hawkings and beggars from trains by discouraging the hawkers.

Public cooperation in removing unauthorised vending in trains will provide a better environment in trains and Stations and give a pleasant journey experience.