In Palakkad Division of Indian Railways, alarm chain pulling incidents have become a major concern, causing significant delays and impacting the efficiency of the network. From January to October 2023, 614 cases were reported, with only 168 being genuine emergencies. The remaining 446 false alarms resulted in a combined delay of...
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11 hours and 48 minutes. General coaches are the most affected, with 406 incidents occurring in these compartments. The Palakkad Junction–Shoranur Junction, Podanur Junction–Palakkad Junction, and Kannur–Kasaragod sections have witnessed the most chain-pulling incidents, particularly during peak hours between 6 pm and 10 pm. Authorities are working to educate passengers on the proper use of alarm chains and enforce the Railways Act 1989, which penalizes non-genuine chain pulling with imprisonment up to one year or a fine of Rs 1,000, or both.