The government will introduce compulsory rail safety lessons in schools starting this September as part of efforts to reduce train disruptions caused by trespassing. The new curriculum is designed to educate pupils on the dangers of entering railway tracks, the correct use of level crossings, and other hazardous behaviors associated with railways.

This measure comes amid a significant rise in incidents involving trespassing on railway property. Data indicates that such incidents have more than doubled, increasing from 6,415 in the 2014-15 period to 13,921 in the most recent year. The surge has prompted concerns over passenger safety and service reliability across the network.

In addition to educational initiatives, publicly-owned rail operators are employing drones equipped with surveillance technology to detect and deter trespassers. The integration of these devices aims to enhance real-time monitoring and support quicker responses to unauthorized track access.

Officials emphasize that these combined measures seek to address the growing trend of railway trespassing, which not only endangers individuals but also causes significant delays and operational challenges for the rail system. The introduction of safety lessons in schools reflects a preventative approach, targeting young people to foster awareness and safe behavior around rail infrastructure.