The Security Department is headed by the Inspector General cum Chief Security Commissioner, Railway Protection Force.

The Role and Duties of the Railway Protection Force , as envisaged in the RPF Act are:-

• To protect and safeguard Railway Property, Passenger area and Passengers.
• To remove any obstruction in the movement of Railway Property and Passengers area.
• To do any other act conducive to better protection and security of Railway Property, Passenger area and Passengers.

The RPF also performs duties relating to passenger facilitation, ensuring passenger’s safety and security action against unauthorized hawkers, ticket less travelers, beggars and urchins, trespassers etc.

In addition, the RPF as a Central Police Organization (CPO) has to undertake duties pertaining to movements, Melas, Agitations etc.

The objectives of the RPF are to carry on an unrelenting fight against criminals in protecting railway property. Facilitate passenger safety and security by removing all anti-social elements form trains and railway premises. Co-operate with other departments of the Railways in improving the efficiency and the image of the Indian Railways. Act as a bridge between the Government Railway Police/Local Police and the Railway administration. Adopt all modern technology and management techniques in the pursuit of these objects.

During 2004-05, the value of railway property stolen was Rs. 69,29,720/- of which property worth Rs. 59,64,314/- was recovered. 1770 accused persons were arrested under the provisions of RP(UP)Act.

In the same period 38,761 anti-social elements were arrested under the provision of the Railways Act. and an amount of Rs. 79,64,128/0 was realized as fine.

Apart from this, during joint ticket less checking with Commercial staff 19,38,905 passengers were apprehended and a fine to the tune of Rs. 5,00,07,04,158/- was realized.

• The strength of the Force on Northern Railway is 6737.