Train Surfers and Vandals Face Administrative and Criminal Penalties

In January, the Northern Railway traditionally summarized the results of the past year in the area of safety at railway facilities, as well as graffiti and vandalism.

In 2025, 35 cases of people being injured at transport infrastructure facilities were recorded on the railway. The largest number of victims — 10 people — was noted in Yaroslavl Region. 8 of them, including 1 minor, died.

Cases of train surfing cause particular concern. Railway workers note its increase by almost 9 times. Last year, 28 such incidents were registered on the Northern Railway, compared to 3 in 2024. 16 cases occurred in Yaroslavl Region.

Thus, in May 2025, teenagers were found on a gondola car of a passing freight train near Semibratovo station. At Rostov station, the offenders were detained by police officers. The teenagers« parents were held administratively liable.

In August, at Yaroslavl station, police found teenagers born in 2008 and 2011 on the automatic coupler of the last car of a commuter train. They were handed over to their parents, who also faced administrative punishment.

The number of vandalism cases on the Northern Railway also increased by almost 2 times. Last year, 71 such offenses were noted on the railway. The total amount of damage exceeded 800,000 rubles (approximately $8,800 at current rates). For the same period in 2024, 39 such incidents were recorded. In Yaroslavl Region, railway workers identified 19 cases of graffiti on rolling stock and 10 cases of damage to railway infrastructure objects.

In September, at Yaroslavl-Glavny station, railway workers found drawings on a car of an electric train. The damage caused exceeded 20,000 rubles (about $220 at current rates). Law enforcement agencies are conducting an investigation.

Also in September, near Molot station, 4 teenagers damaged a switch point coupling. The amount of damage is 31,000 rubles (about $340 at current rates). A criminal case has been initiated under the article «Intentional destruction or damage of someone else»s property.«

To prevent injuries and vandalism, railway workers constantly conduct preventive measures: they organize raids, safety lessons and excursions, install special fences, surveillance cameras and lighting, enhance security, and instruct drivers working at night.

Over 12 months in 2025, railway workers held more than 18,000 lectures and talks in educational institutions. More than 98,000 people participated in them. Employees of the Northern Railway demonstrated more than 3,000 films, and held competitions, excursions and quizzes for children and teenagers.

JSC Russian Railways (RZD) constantly calls for vigilance when crossing the railway, and asks to report train surfers to the locomotive crew, police officers, the station duty officer, or via emergency number 112.

The Northern Railway also reminds that illegal interference in railway transport activities threatens train traffic safety and entails both administrative and criminal responsibility.