Last Update: February 21, 2023, 20:52 IST
This service is likely to be introduced in passenger trains with parcel wagons first. (File for representation)
Presently the wagons are sealed and the seal is checked at every station. If the seal is found to be broken at any station, appropriate steps are taken to register a complaint and an inquiry is initiated between the two stations where the seal was broken.
Taking a major step towards protecting parcel and goods wagons from theft, Indian Rail Soon an OTP-based digital locker will be introduced which can be operated by designated staff only and will prevent theft of items carried on trains.
According to a ministry official, the prototype is being developed in three-four divisions, including Howrah.
“The idea is to install locks in goods and parcel wagons. These locks will be OTP protected and only designated railway officials can open them. The idea is in preliminary and experimental stage and is being developed in three-four divisions. We are yet to finalize the lock. We are working on it and hope to launch it very soon.”
Presently the wagons are sealed and the seal is checked at every station. If the seal is found to be broken at any station, appropriate steps are taken to lodge a complaint and an inquiry is initiated between the two stations where the seal was broken. This process requires a lot of manpower.
“An official has to check all this manually at each station. However, the new locks will be equipped with geofencing and can be opened only at designated stations. So if a train is stopped somewhere and someone tries to break it, it will fail. Along with this, manpower will also be saved because no officer will be required to check the seal at every station. Without the OTP, it would not be possible to open these locks,” added the official, seeking anonymity.
He also said that the service is likely to be established in passenger trains with parcel wagons first. Such locks are used in trucks and this will be the first time the ministry will use it.
“Theft will not be possible after these locks. We are dedicated to this and are working aggressively. This will prevent theft of cement, goods and parcels.”
It will be streamlined through the Center for Railway Information Systems (CRIS) and will be developed and customized as per the requirement of the Railways.
While there is no database on theft of parcels or luggage, a good number of complaints related to these are registered every year, another official told News18.
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