Railways to Install Cameras on Trains to Identify Stone Throwers

Egypt’s Railway Authority has announced a plan to install surveillance cameras on locomotives to identify individuals who throw stones at passing trains. The move is part of a broader effort to curb acts of vandalism that disrupt rail operations and undermine ongoing infrastructure improvements.

The Authority stated that those identified will face prosecution and financial penalties, adding that such acts not only endanger passenger safety but also strain the national budget. Funds originally allocated for modernisation and development are frequently diverted to cover maintenance and repair costs caused by stone-throwing incidents.

In addressing the root causes of this behaviour, the Railway Authority underscored the role of education in raising public awareness. A recent conference held in collaboration with the West Zagazig Education Administration and attended by the local Undersecretary of the Ministry of Education focused on promoting responsible behaviour around railway infrastructure.

In parallel, the Authority has launched a public safety campaign titled "Salamtak Tehemena" (“Your Safety Matters to Us”) to tackle another persistent issue—garbage thrown onto railway tracks. The practice has been linked to fires, accidents, service disruptions, environmental harm, and damage to public property. Officials noted that such actions negatively affect the image of Egypt’s modernised rail system, which has seen broad upgrades in recent years, including new rolling stock, improved stations, and updated signalling systems.