Indian Railways to Draft Sports Equipment Policy Following Controversy
Carrying poles in trains controversy pushes Railways to draft sports equipment policy
The Indian Express
Image: The Indian Express
In response to recent incidents affecting athletes, Indian Railways plans to establish a sports equipment policy for better transport of sports goods. This decision follows complaints from pole vault athletes regarding difficulties faced while traveling with their equipment, prompting discussions with the sports ministry.
- 01Indian Railways will draft a sports equipment policy to facilitate transport for athletes.
- 02Recent incidents highlighted the challenges faced by athletes traveling with large sports gear.
- 03The sports ministry has been actively involved in addressing these issues with the railway administration.
- 04Ticket-checking staff are advised to adopt a considerate approach towards athletes and their equipment.
- 05The Railway Sports Promotion Board is collaborating with the sports ministry to finalize the policy.
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The Indian Railways is set to create a sports equipment policy aimed at easing the transport of sports gear for athletes. This initiative comes after a recent incident at Rajahmundry station, where pole vault athletes faced difficulties traveling with their poles. A letter from Shivraj Manaspure, a senior Divisional Commercial manager of Central Railway, emphasized the need for ticket-checking staff to treat sportspeople with courtesy and understanding. The Railway Sports Promotion Board (RSPB) has been in discussions with the Indian sports ministry to address the dimensions and types of equipment needed for travel, including poles up to 5.20 meters long, arrows, and rowing gear. This follows previous incidents where athletes, such as former national record holder Dev Meena, were fined for carrying their equipment. The sports ministry, led by Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, is advocating for the timely establishment of this policy, recognizing the importance of supporting athletes in their travel needs. The railway administration is committed to ensuring a passenger-friendly experience and is working closely with the sports ministry to finalize the necessary guidelines.
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This policy will significantly ease travel for athletes, allowing them to participate in competitions without the fear of harassment or fines for carrying their equipment.
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