The "Meri Saheli" initiative by Railway Protection Force, South Central Railway is a commendable endeavour aimed at ensuring the safety and security of women passengers during their train journeys. Launched with the objective of creating a safer and more comfortable travel experience for women, this initiative reflects a proactive approach by the Indian Railways and SCR to enhance women security ensuring a seamless journey over Indian Railways
The primary goal of "Meri Saheli" is to provide women passengers with a heightened sense of security during train journeys, enabling them to travel without apprehensions about their safety. The initiative aims to create a supportive environment by deploying trained female personnel who can assist women passengers in various aspects, including boarding and alighting from the train, understanding the layout of the station, and addressing any concerns during the journey. Another crucial aspect of the initiative is to raise awareness among women about their rights, the available support mechanisms, and how to respond effectively to any untoward incidents.
"Meri Saheli" initiative has been launched over South Central Railway since October, 2020. "Meri Saheli" Teams are established at 20 stations across 6 divisions of SCR. Secunderabad Division with 5 stations, Hyderabad Division with 2 stations, Vijayawada with 4 stations, Guntakal with 4 stations, Guntur with 1 station and Nanded with 4 stations. Each team is led by a dedicated Women Sub Inspector along with 2 to 24 members. 15 originating trains and 35 passing through trains on SCR are being are assisted by Meri Saheli Teams over SCR.
The performance of the Meri Saheli teams of SCR is assessed in terms of the number of trains attended, passengers assisted, feedback collected, and the quality of service provided. Overall, the Meri Saheli teams of SCR in the year 2023 (Jan – July) have shown consistent effort in ensuring passenger safety and assistance. Feedback ratings reflect both excellent and satisfactory ratings, suggesting a balanced response from passengers.
The Meri Saheli initiative by the Railway Protection Force is a shining example of a well-thought-out effort to prioritize women's safety and comfort during train travel. By combining security measures, assistance, awareness, and empowerment, the initiative not only ensures the well-being of women passengers but also plays a significant role in reshaping the travel experience on Indian railways. It stands as a testament to the power of collaborative efforts in creating positive change and safer spaces for all.
Shri Arun Kumar Jain, General Manager, SCR complimented the Railway Protection Force personnel for implementing the “Meri Saheli” initiative and organizing the focused campaigns to educate the women passengers about security precautions to observed while travelling. He emphasized that Security of the women passengers shall be given utmost priority.
Performance of ‘Meri Saheli’ Teams of South Central Railway from January to July-2023
| Division | No. of Trains attended | Number of passengers Assisted | No. of Feedbacks collected | Excellent | satisfactory |
| Secunderabad | 5190 | 22159 | 19179 | 12974 | 6205 |
| Hyderabad | 674 | 484 | 7505 | 7505 | -- |
| Vijayawada | 4579 | 24114 | 7294 | 1280 | 5986 |
| Guntakal | 1820 | 322 | 1116 | 974 | 146 |
| Guntur | 1061 | 630 | 894 | 808 | 86 |
| Nanded | 435 | 195 | 5239 | 3936 | 1353 |
