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Railway Safety Alert: You have likely seen people attempting to maneuver their vehicles under a closed railway gate. However, did you know that doing so could land you in jail?

Railway Safety Alert: Often, people engage in actions out of haste or negligence that can have serious consequences. For instance, some attempt to cross roads amidst heavy traffic, while others risk their lives by hanging onto the doors of buses or trains. Such actions can prove extremely dangerous.

Similarly, you may have observed individuals trying to pass their bikes or other vehicles under a closed railway gate—a practice that poses a threat to their lives. Moreover, such actions can attract fines and strict legal penalties. Therefore, it is important to familiarize yourself with the relevant rules.

Passing under the gate can prove costly.

First, understand when the gate closes: the attendant closes it when a train is due to arrive. Motorists must wait for the train to pass before the gate is reopened. Attempting to forcibly cross the tracks during this interval creates a dangerous situation. The Railways classifies this as a punishable offense.

Impact on your driving license

In such cases, the railway administration, in coordination with the Road Transport Department, can suspend—or in severe cases, revoke—the driver’s license under the Motor Vehicles Act. Therefore, do not risk your life just to save a few minutes; never make the mistake of crossing a closed gate.

Vehicle seizure alongside legal action

If caught crossing the gate, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) can immediately detain the individual. Furthermore, the vehicle itself is liable to be seized on the spot. With a greater emphasis on safety, CCTV cameras have now been installed at many railway crossings to ensure immediate action can be taken against anyone seen crossing the tracks. In such instances, the vehicle’s registration number is recorded, allowing for the issuance of a fine or other punitive measures at a later stage.

Action to be taken under these sections

If an individual is found crossing the tracks beneath a closed railway gate, strict action will be taken against them under Sections 146 and 147 of the Railways Act.

• In such a scenario, a fine of up to ₹1,000 may be imposed.
• Additionally, the offender could face imprisonment for up to six months.
• Furthermore, if an individual obstructs the work of the staff stationed at the crossing, action and fines may be imposed under Section 146.
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Keep these important points in mind

This rule applies not only to bikes and other vehicles but also to pedestrians. Trains travel at very high speeds, making it potentially fatal for a motorcyclist or pedestrian to attempt to cross the tracks. Therefore, always keep the following in mind:

• Do not cross a closed gate.
• Do not act in haste.
• Passing a vehicle under the gate can be life-threatening.
• You could face strict action and a fine.
• You could also face imprisonment for up to six months.