Thaindian News

New Delhi, Sep 6 (IANS) Delhi Metro, with the help of an NGO, has launched a public service initiative to reduce suicide bids at its stations.

Metro staff, those on the counter and manning the stations, will be sensitised by volunteers of Sumaitri to identify suicide-prone people and counsel them, said an Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) official Thursday.

The NGO, Sumaitri, also has a helpline - 011-23389090 - for counselling.

A young man Thursday attempted suicide at the Punjabi Bagh Metro station. A day before, a young woman had killed herself after jumping from the Pragati Maidan Metro Station platform.

DMRC is also increasing the height of railings in elevated stations to stop people from climbing them and jump.

Posters highlighting the importance of life will also be put up at stations to discourage suicide.

“We are extremely concerned about the suicides at metro premises. We have launched a public service initiative to sensitise the staff,” the official said.

Railing work at 19 suicide-prone stations are likely to be completed in a month, said the official.

These stations include Seelampur, Uttam Nagar East, Janakpuri West, Kirti Nagar, Rajendra Place, Noida Sector 16, Dilshad Garden, Jahangirpuri, Govindpuri, Sultanpur and M.G. Road.

The number of platform railings will also be increased.

Currently, Delhi Metro has put up barriers on platforms. Guards also keep a vigil on the passengers.

Delhi Metro carries around 1.8 million passengers on weekdays.