25 Oct 2024
Transperth officials have reported a concerning rise in the number of students accidentally dropping personal belongings onto railway tracks. Many students, unaware of the grave risks, believe they can safely retrieve their items by hopping onto the tracks and climbing back up. However, this miscalculation could not only result in life-threatening accidents but also lead to hefty fines of up to $1000 for trespassing.
Transperth's extensive CCTV network, monitoring all stations, ensures that individuals who attempt to retrieve items by entering the tracks are identified and issued infringement notices.
“The reason we take this so seriously is the risk of a student being hit by a train,” a Transperth spokesperson said.
Trains often arrive silently and at high speeds, making the risk of serious injury or death significant. As a result, Transperth has emphasised the importance of never stepping on to the tracks. Instead, students and other passengers are urged to use the emergency buttons located on all station platforms to report the situation. The operator in the Central Monitoring Room will then arrange for a Transit Officer to safely retrieve the dropped item.
“The safety of all our passengers is paramount,” the spokesperson added. “We want to ensure that no one makes a mistake that could have tragic consequences.”
Transperth is continuing its efforts to educate young people on railway safety, reminding all passengers that quick thinking and following safety procedures are essential when dealing with dropped items.
Return to the News Desk