Amtrak tightens train security

In a new push towards greater security on its trains, Amtrak will begin to randomly search passengers’ carry-on bags and employ armed security and drug and bomb-sniffing dogs on train carriages. This week’s announcement comes a long while after airlines implemented such measures after the terrorist attacks in New York City and Washington, DC on September 11th, 2001. Not having to go through rigorous security checks is what many travellers found attractive about traveling by train, but now riding the rails may begin to take on the same characteristics as checking in to an airport.

Amtrak’s vice president for security strategy and special operations Bill Rooney said, “On-time performance is a key element of Amtrak service. We are fully mindful of that. This is not about train delays. We’re very conscious of the fact that you’re in an environment where commuters have minutes to go from train to train.”

The Madrid train bombings in 2004 brought Amtrak security into question, but it has taken this long to initiate the new security measures.

www.amtrak.com