The largest railway station in the state, Ludhiana Junction, faces heightened security risks as the luggage scanner remains non-functional for approximately six months. With over 200 trains and around 50,000 passengers passing through, the absence of a functioning luggage scanner raises concerns about the vulnerability of the passengers to potential security threats.
Despite the significant security threat posed to passengers, the railway station lacks a mechanism to scan and check the baggage of travelers. The only security measure in place is a railway police constable stationed at the entrance equipped with a hand-held metal detector.
Officials have been passing the responsibility for the non-functional machine, with the divisional railway manager directing inquiries to the divisional security commissioner (DSC). The DSC, in turn, refrained from commenting on specific dates, stating that he was unaware. According to a police official at the station, the machine has been out of service since its relocation from the old entrance.
While the station has been undergoing redevelopment for the past six months, and the old building was demolished to make way for a new one, the lack of an operational luggage scanner raises concerns about passenger safety. A recent special checking conducted by Ludhiana Police along with the Railway Police revealed conflicting information about the functionality of the machine. ACP Rupinder Kaur Sra mentioned that the machine was operational a week ago, a statement contradicted by other station officials. She expressed her intention to inquire about the machine.
The dormant luggage scanner poses not only a security risk but also serves as an easy transit route for illicit substances. The station has witnessed instances of drug smuggling, including a recent arrest in December 2023 where a peddler was apprehended with 21 kg ganja and 12 kg opium. The absence of mandatory checks raises concerns about the unchecked transportation of such substances through the station.
In response to the situation, the DSC mentioned, “We have finalized a new maintenance contract, and the machine will be operational soon.” However, no tentative date or deadline was provided.
