Howrah division unveils indigenously developed ballistic shield

The Howrah Division of Eastern Railway has designed and developed an advanced ballistic shield that is anticipated to enhance the safety and operational capability of the Railway Protection Force (RPF) significantly.

A ballistic shield is a bullet-proof, tactical protective shield designed to safeguard personnel from firearm projectiles, shrapnel, blunt-force attacks, and other ballistic threats. It is commonly used by law enforcement teams during high-risk operations such as counter-insurgency and crowd control. The newly developed shield has been constructed using high-grade stainless-steel plates and is engineered to withstand small-calibre bullets fired from considerable distances. In addition to ballistic protection, the shield is specifically designed to safeguard RPF personnel from stone pelting—an issue that often arises during certain law-and-order situations in crowded railway environments.

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According to official sources in the Eastern Railway, the shield provides extensive physical coverage to personnel even while standing at a height of 7 feet. A notable feature of its design is the integration of 17.4 mm toughened transparent glass, which ensures wide visibility and allows RPF staff to maintain situational awareness while remaining securely protected.

Another highlight of the shield is that it has been ergonomically crafted and enables two RPF personnel to operate it simultaneously, enhancing coordination during field operations. Mounted on 360-degree swivel wheels, it allows rapid movement in any direction, ensuring swift response during emergent situations. Its mobility and robust design make it suitable for both offensive and defensive deployment in sensitive and high-footfall areas of the station.

Notably, implementation of Face Recognition System, X-Ray baggage scanners at important stations is another major project for passenger security. Crucial railway stations of the Eastern Railway including Howrah and Sealdah have been identified for the installation of the FRS system at the station very soon.