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Say NO to Risky Reels: Warns Indian Railways
A Zero-Tolerance Approach to Balance Social Media Fame and Public Safety
Indian Railways has issued a strict warning to creators/influencers across the country. The Railway Board instructed all zones to take action, including filing First Information Reports (FIRs) against creators who compromise railway safety. This directive comes in response to a disturbing rise in incidents where people, particularly youngsters, risk their lives and those of others for viral social media content and fame. Indian Railways warns “Don’t try to be heroes, you will die or be crippled away”.
Why the Crackdown on Reels?
Recently, we all may have seen an alarming trend of individuals performing dangerous stunts on railway premises on social media platforms. Placing objects on tracks and taking selfies near moving trains are the kind of actions that are likely to only lead to tragic consequences.
One such case involved a person being struck by a train while attempting to capture a selfie too close to the tracks.
A senior Railway Board official expressed frustration, saying, “People have crossed all limits for making reels. They not only risk their own lives but also compromise the safety of hundreds of rail passengers.”
In another shocking incident, a man tried to film a stunt using a Mahindra Thar SUV on railway tracks near Jaipur. The loco pilot averted a major accident when he stopped the goods train in time.
Similarly, in Chennai, a group of college students caused chaos at Vyasarpadi Jeeva railway station by travelling dangerously on the footboard of a train raising slogans and recording themselves for Instagram Live. FIRs were filed in both cases and further sent to trial.
Zero Tolerance for Unsafe Acts and Unwanted Reels
The Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP) are instructed to adopt a “zero-tolerance” policy towards any behaviour that endangers railway operations or passenger safety. Those caught performing stunts or disrupting train services will face serious legal consequences, including criminal charges with heavy fines and imprisonment.
Railway’s message is clear, public safety comes first and they don’t care about the era of recklessly endangering lives for social media fame.
The Tragic of Reel-Making
Several tragic incidents in recent years have highlighted the deadly consequences of such stunts for thrill or fame.
Mumbai Skating Stunt Gone Wrong: A teenager lost both his arm and leg while attempting a dangerous skating stunt on a moving train.
Family of Three Killed: A family was hit by a train while they were busy recording an Instagram reel on the tracks.
Not just these, but many such incidents are a harsh reminder of the risks involved and no one should prioritise social media fame over safety.
Advanced Safety Measures by Kavach 4.0
While shutting down the irresponsible behaviour, Indian Railways is also planning on implementing safety measures with advanced technologies. The Kavach 4.0 system, an automatic train protection technology is being installed across 10,000 locomotives and 14,375 route kilometres of tracks. This initiative ensures safer travel for millions of passengers and enhances operational efficiency.
The Railway Ministry is fast-tracking the complete implementation of this technology in every train, locomotive, station and common area. This forms a critical network of the broader mission to modernise and secure the rail network.
Responsibility over Reels
The zero-tolerance policy and technological advancements by the Indian Railways address the safety challenges of irresponsible behaviour and outdated systems. While the Kavach 4.0 system will undoubtedly improve safety, the responsibility also lies on us individuals.
Reels fetch likes and followers, but at the cost of lives? Definitely not!
Despite the imminent danger on railway premises, one rare incident of a positive outcome from such stunts stands out. A content creator filming a reel happened to be near an elderly man who fell from the train onto a platform. The influencer rushed to save him, avoiding what could have been a tragic accident. While this act of courage is praiseworthy, it shouldn’t be a source of inspiration to attempt such risky stunts. Most of the time, such stories don’t end so well.
We at The Reelstars urge content creators to draw the line between creativity and recklessness. After all, no reel is worth risking lives, yours or anyone else’s.
Stay safe, Stay Creative and Create Content Responsibly.