New Delhi: In 2024, commuters in Delhi Metro left behind a staggering array of valuables, including over Rs 40 lakh in cash, 89 laptops, 193 mobile phones, and nine 'mangalsutras'. These items were collected by personnel from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), who meticulously verified ownership before returning the lost belongings.
The CISF provides vital security coverage to the Delhi Metro network, spanning more than 250 stations and 350 km of rail tracks across the national capital region (NCR). Many of the lost items were left near X-ray baggage scanners in station areas, where passengers mistakenly forgot them.
According to official data obtained by PTI, in addition to the cash, laptops, and mobile phones, the CISF also recovered valuable silver ornaments, including 13 pairs of anklets, as well as various pieces of jewelry like rings and bangles. They also found an assortment of foreign currency, including US dollars, Saudi riyals, and Thai baht, totaling 24,550.
The data also revealed that the CISF handled several critical incidents in 2024. The agency recorded 59 suicide attempts within the Delhi Metro system last year, resulting in 23 fatalities, three rescues, and 33 injuries. The force also confiscated 75 rounds of live ammunition and seven firearms during routine security checks.
In a notable humanitarian effort, the CISF found and safely returned 262 unaccompanied children to their families, local police, or child helplines. Additionally, the force extended assistance to 671 women passengers in distress.
To ensure the safety of millions of daily commuters, the CISF has deployed 13,000 personnel, both men and women, across the Delhi Metro network. The metro system serves as a crucial transport link for residents traveling between Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad (UP), Gurugram, and Faridabad (Haryana).
With PTI inputs