In a first-of-its-kind move, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) has introduced specially designed three-wheeled electric scooters, or ‘trikes’, for patrolling at Chennai Central railway station, aiming to enhance passenger safety and improve response time.
Officially known as Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Central Railway Station, one of the busiest stations in Tamil Nadu, handling both long-distance and suburban train services across its 17 platforms. With nearly a kilometre separating the 12 platforms used for intercity trains, ensuring continuous surveillance has been a logistical challenge for RPF personnel deployed round the clock.
To address this, the force has deployed 12 battery-operated trikes that allow personnel to patrol the platforms more efficiently and respond swiftly to emergencies. Designed for single-person use, the scooters enable guards to move quickly across long stretches without compromising vigilance.
The trikes can reach speeds of up to 30 kmph and have a range of approximately 25 kilometres on a single charge, with a full recharge taking about two hours. They are equipped with features such as reverse driving capability, GPS tracking, emergency lights, sirens, and a public address system with a microphone and loudspeaker to issue instructions to passengers when needed.
The vehicles also include practical fittings such as holders for a lathi, mobile phone, and water bottle, along with storage space for documents and electronic devices. Charging the scooters is simple and requires no specialised infrastructure.
Manufactured by a private startup based in Coimbatore, the trikes are already being used for daily patrols. RPF officials said the initiative has been particularly beneficial for women personnel, enabling them to carry out their duties with greater ease and efficiency. Railway authorities said that no other station in India currently uses such vehicles for patrolling, though interest is growing.
Officials indicated that similar deployments are being considered at stations in other states, including Andhra Pradesh.
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