Friday, February 24 2006 13:06 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

New Delhi: Railway Protection Force (RPF) is being modernised to strengthen passenger security in trains with 'special arrangements' being made for women, Railway Minister Lalu Prasad said today (Feb 24,2006).

"RPF is deploying escort parties for about 1,000 passengers trains everyday," he said presenting the Rail Budget in the Lok Sabha.

Access control and security at about 600 stations is bring provided through RPF, the Minister said.

To provide security to women passengers, "The Railways are providing special squads in compartments reserved for women passengers in suburban rails areas also. Special arrangements are being made for security of women," Prasad said.

"In view of the important role of the RPF in the security of passengers, the modernisation of the forces is being given special attention," he said.

On Republic Day this year, seven RPF employees were honoured for exceptional work with bravery medals by President A P J Abdul Kalam.