Pakistan Railways Boosts Security After Jaffer Express Attack
In the wake of the tragic Jaffer Express incident, Pakistan Railways (PR) has significantly enhanced security measures at all railway stations and installations, including its headquarters. PR police have intensified surveillance, conducting thorough inspections of passengers and monitoring all entry and exit points across the country.
Despite facing a critical shortage of manpower, weapons, and essential equipment, railway police personnel are diligently performing their duties under challenging conditions. Security patrols have been ramped up at both major and minor railway stations, with passengers only permitted to board trains after rigorous checks.
At Lahore Railway Station, police officers are stationed at every entry and exit point, closely observing passengers with the assistance of security cameras. Additionally, transport vehicles entering railway premises are undergoing stricter inspections, with traffic wardens collaborating alongside police and railway security teams.
The railway police are currently grappling with understaffing, particularly in the ranks of constables, ASIs, and inspectors. To address this, the department has completed physical tests for new recruits, with the hiring process set to commence next month. Initially, 200 to 300 personnel will be recruited, followed by an additional 500, for which government approval has already been secured.
Despite these measures, many train passengers remain uneasy. Condemning the recent attack on the Jaffer Express as a cowardly act, they expressed determination to continue their travels while urging railway authorities to implement stricter baggage screening and adopt advanced security technologies to prevent future incidents. The Jaffer Express service remains suspended, and railway officials have not yet announced when it will resume operations.
