Mumbai: Women's toilet at Sewri railway station is haven for druggies

Mumbai: Women's toilet at Sewri railway station is haven for druggies

A druggie is seen smoking up inside a toilet

An alert citizen has taken a video clip of a nefarious activity that takes place on platform no. 1 of the Sewri railway station, inconveniencing several railway commuters, especially women. The clip, which was shared with mid-day, shows the women's toilet at the station being used as a makeshift haven for druggies.

In the footage, taken at around 10 pm on Wednesday, a druggie is seen smoking up inside a toilet, while another one, whose face is not visible, is seen sharing the smoke. The toilet, which is located on platform no. 1, is usually locked from inside so that the druggies aren't disturbed.

"There are no cops or railway staff available to stop these people," said the local commuter, who did not wish to be named. "While on one end, the railway minister talks big about ensuring women security on railway property, druggies are openly using women's toilets to satisfy their cravings," he added.

Aneeta Mehta, a female commuter, who travels daily from Sewri to Navi Mumbai said, "This is a routine sight. Women are scared of walking alone on the platform and using the toilets after dusk."

According to activist Sameer Zaveri, most railway stations have become dens for these gangs of druggies. "This is a very serious offense and is dangerous for women's safety. The RPF and GRP should take it seriously."

Sachin Bhalode, Senior Divisional Security Commissioner (Mumbai), Central Railway, said, "If we get a specific complaint about drug addicts on railway premises then we can catch them for trespassing. But, they are sent to the rehab centre by the GRP."