The Herald (Zimbabwe)

Railway tracks are not recreation­al places

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PLAYING or relaxing on a railway line dangerous and can lead to loss of life.

As NRZ, we have noticed a trend where people are using the track to exercise or just loitering.

Railway yards are protected areas and the public is advised not to use them as thoroughfa­res.

It is illegal for persons to be found loitering on railway tracks as they can be charged for trespassin­g.

There is a tendency for people to crawl under wagons or climb over wagons, a situation which is extremely dangerous in that they can be runis over during train movements.

At railway stations passengers must stay on platforms for their own safety. They must avoid using the tracks to access other platforms when boarding trains. At some major stations foot bridges are available for passengers to use.

NRZ also appeals to passengers not to board trains whilst under the influence of alcohol as they risk falling or slipping with grave consequenc­es to their own safety.

Drunkennes­s might cause confusion that at times would lead to mistaking exit doors for toilets resulting in them falling off moving trains.

Passengers are also encouraged to avoid boarding or disembarki­ng from a train while it is still in motion but only do so when it comes to a standstill. This should be done using designated exit/ entry points and avoid using windows.

It has been observed some passengers vandalise fittings meant for passenger comfort and safety. Passengers need to take pride in fittings in passenger coaches as these have been put to ensure a safe and comfortabl­e ride.

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