Wi-Fi and LED screens have been installed and there has also been an exemplary cleanliness system at the station
Rawalpindi Railway Station. PHOTO: EXPRESS TRIBUNE/FILE
Rawalpindi Railway Station has become Pakistan’s first smart railway station, with security made foolproof through the installation of over 180 cameras and a modern scanning system.
The perimeter of the station had already been secured with a strong 10-foot-high wall topped with barbed wire and linked by security guard towers.
State-of-the-art CCTV cameras installed at the station building, parking area, seating areas and entry and exit points keep constant surveillance on all visitors. Passengers’ luggage is screened through advanced scanning machines, where the contents are clearly visible to active employees on large screens.
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Through these security measures, the safety of the station building, platforms and other areas has been ensured.
Staff associated with the smart station system said that the conversion of Rawalpindi Railway Station into a smart station has significantly improved security and other railway stations across the country will also be upgraded. Passengers termed the initiative as a positive step and said it would ensure the safety of both travelers and the station.
In addition to increased security, an exemplary cleaning system has also been established at the station. Uniformed personnel of the Rawalpindi Waste Management Company remain engaged in continuous cleaning operations. For the convenience of passengers, a modern CIP lounge has also been set up where passengers with AC saloon and AC sleepers can spend up to three hours in a comfortable and clean environment for Rs 300.
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Tea and snacks are provided along with facilities such as Wi-Fi, LED screens and toilets. Well-dressed staff are also on hand to help and guide passengers.
Railway officials said that before the establishment of the foolproof security system through 180 CCTV cameras, both the forecourt and backyard areas of the station were covered by a strong 10 feet high wall topped with barbed wire. Watchtowers have been built along this protective border and access to the station building is now restricted to designated routes only.
A separate security system has also been implemented in the railway station to ensure complete security coverage of the station.
