OREANDA-NEWS. August 17, 2011. Railways have taken steps to upgrade Railway Protection Force (RPF). A total number of 6107 new non-gazatted posts have been sanctioned for augmentation of RPF strength. An Integrated Security System is under implementation to strengthen surveillance mechanism over sensitive stations of the Indian Railways. Networking of Posts and Security Control Rooms of the RPF is under process for faster dissemination of data/feedback/complaints, reported the press-centre of Indian Railways.

Norms and scales of 30 modern security related equipment, required by RPF, have been laid down by a Norms Committee and Procurement of modern security related equipment is nearing completion. One company in each of the 12 Railway Protection Special Force (RPSF) Battalions has been earmarked as Commando Company by giving Commando training to RPSF personnel.

Adequate quantities of modern weaponry has been acquired for strengthening the RPF. Phase-wise upgradation of facilities in RPF training centers is being done. In the first phase 7 training centers have been nominated. To develop in-house commando training facilities in the RPF, a commando training center has also been approved.

Sanctioned strength of RPF is 74537. Of these, 13455 posts are lying vacant on date. Arising and filling up of vacancies is a continuous process. Applications have already been invited through open advertisement to fill up 11952 posts of Constables and 511 posts of Sub-Inspectors. Promotional vacancies are being filled through Departmental selections. An All-India Security Helpline has been approved. Technical details are being finalized.