Pune Railway Station, one of the busiest transport hubs in the city, is grappling with rising security concerns and a growing nuisance caused by beggars and drunkards. Passengers have been facing harassment, littering and unhygienic conditions, making their travel experience increasingly unsafe and unpleasant.

According to railway officials and passengers, a major reason behind the menace is the presence of a liquor shop located barely 20-30 metres from the station. Many individuals purchase alcohol, get drunk and then use the railway station premises to loiter or sleep, leading to severe inconvenience for travellers. Despite repeated complaints, no strict action has been taken to address this growing menace.

Additionally, the Pune Railway Station is facing serious security lapses. X-ray luggage scanners installed at the main entrance have stopped working due to technical glitches, with only two of them functioning. This poses a significant risk, as unchecked luggage increases the chances of security threats.

Rohini Yadav, a passenger, highlighted, "We were waiting for the train to Gorakhpur. Meanwhile, a drunkard came and sat beside us. It was frightening; we were worried about speaking to each other."

On the basis of anonymity, an official from the Railway Protection Force (RPF), speaking to The Free Press Journal, said, "More than 20 beggars could be found at the railway station. However, we are consistently trying to stop them from coming to the railway station. Our team sends them to NGOs that take care of such people. However, they come again at the station. Similarly, action is being taken against the drunkards. However, due to the availability of a liquor shop near the railway station, drunkards come to the station to sleep."

Prabir Kumar Das, Assistant Security Commissioner (RPF), told FPJ, "We will definitely look into the matter and coordinate with the dedicated department to move the liquor shop as per the rules and regulations. Moreover, X-ray machines will be increased soon. Additionally, a holding point will be constructed at the railway station for the passengers. It will have a capacity of more than 1,000 passengers."

Hemant Kumar Behera, Divisional Commercial Manager and Public Relations Officer, (Pune Railway Station) said, "Due to technical issues the scanning machine is facing a breakdown. However, soon it will be resolved. Also, a dedicated RPF team has been deployed for the day and night shifts. The people who are trying to create a nuisance at the railway station will be kicked off."