In the wake of a rise in incidents of road vehicles dashing through or getting trapped inside closed railway level crossing gates, the Railway Protection Force (RPF), Thiruvananthapuram Division, has decided to enforce strict measures to stop such dangerous violations that put the lives of road users, railway staff, and thousands of train passengers at risk.

The increasing number of such incidents has become a matter of serious concern for Railways. During 2025, a total of 104 railway level crossing gate dash incidents were reported in the Thiruvananthapuram Railway Division and 27 such incidents have been reported so far this year. To reduce the growing number of such incidents, the RPF, Thiruvananthapuram Division, in coordination with all departments concerned, especially the Motor Vehicles department, has intensified action against motorists violating safety rules at railway level crossings.

A circular has been issued by the State Transport Commissioner, warning of strict action against drivers involved in railway level crossing gate dash incidents. The circular was issued following intervention by the RPF seeking strong action against offenders whose reckless behavior endangers railway operations and public safety. Under the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, licensing authorities have been instructed to initiate suspension of driving licence of offenders based on reports received from railway authorities.

Damages to be recovered

Drivers who ignore warning signals, attempt to cross the level crossings after closure of gates or forcibly break through railway gates will also face criminal proceedings and recovery of damages caused to railway property, said a statement issued by Railways on Thursday. 

Every gate dash incident affects train operations and causes avoidable delays to trains carrying thousands of passengers daily. After such incidents, trains are often delayed until railway staff inspect tracks, signalling systems, gates, and other safety equipment to ensure safe train movement. More importantly, such reckless acts can lead to major accidents, derailments, serious injuries, and loss of human life. Analysis of the incidents shows that most violations happen due to rash driving, speeding near level crossings, impatience, and attempts to cross after warning signals are given or gates are closed, said Railways.

The road users are advised to stop the vehicle immediately when warning signals are given or when the gate starts closing. Never attempt to cross the level crossing while the gate is closing or after it is closed. Similarly, vehicles should start moving only after the gate is fully opened.