Railway land is a valuable asset that is owned and managed by the Indian Railways. However, illegal use of railway land is a major problem that can result in loss of revenue and pose safety and security risks. The following are some steps that can be taken to control the illegal use of railway land:
- Conduct regular surveys: The first step in controlling the illegal use of railway land is to conduct regular surveys to identify encroachments and unauthorized use of railway land. This can be done by using satellite imagery and ground surveys to identify the extent of encroachments.
- Create a database: A database of railway land should be created and maintained to keep track of the ownership, use, and encroachments on railway land. This database should be updated regularly to ensure that it is accurate and up-to-date.
- Strengthen legal provisions: The legal provisions for the protection of railway land should be strengthened to deter encroachments and unauthorized use. The Indian Railways Act and the Railway Protection Force Act can be amended to increase the penalties for encroachments and to provide more powers to railway authorities to take action against encroachments.
- Increase surveillance: Surveillance of railway land should be increased to detect encroachments and unauthorized use. This can be done by installing CCTV cameras, deploying security personnel, and conducting regular patrols.
- Collaboration with other agencies: Collaboration with other agencies such as local governments, police, and revenue departments can be helpful in identifying and removing encroachments. Joint inspections can be conducted to identify encroachments and take action against the encroachers.
- Public awareness campaigns: Public awareness campaigns can be launched to educate the public about the importance of railway land and the legal provisions for its protection. This can be done through advertisements, posters, and social media campaigns.
- Strict action against encroachers: Strict action should be taken against encroachers to deter them from illegally using railway land. This can include filing of FIRs, demolition of unauthorized structures, and recovery of damages.
- Use of technology: Technology can be used to monitor railway land and detect encroachments. Drones can be used to conduct aerial surveys of railway land, while GIS mapping can be used to identify the ownership and use of railway land.