Palakkad: Palakkad Division Railway Protection Force (RPF) has stepped up action against unnecessary pulling of alarm chains in trains. In September 2026 alone reported 59 incidents of alarm chain pulling in various trains. Cases have been registered against passengers in 39 incidents.

The remaining incidents are related to genuine situations such as elderly people, those traveling with babies and patients not being able to get down on time, passengers falling onto the track, medical emergencies and technical faults, the railway authorities said. Those with urgent circumstances are exempted from the case.

When can the chain be pulled?

Unauthorized pulling of alarm chain is punishable under Section 141 of the Railways Act, 1989. Those who pull chains illegally can be jailed for up to one year or fined up to Rs 1,000 or both. The chain should never be pulled for personal reasons such as leaving the station, waiting for a late passenger, getting off at an unscheduled place.

This system should only be used in genuine emergencies such as passenger falling from train, serious medical condition or immediate threat to passenger safety. Use of alarm chain without urgent need may cause disruption of train traffic, affect signaling coordination and delay connecting trains.

If passengers need help, they can inform railway help‌ through line number 139 or train staff. RPF requested passengers to behave responsibly to ensure safe and punctual train services.