Making Patna a turning point for children at risk of exploitation.
Nestled along the south bank of the River Ganges, in the state of Bihar, lies the ancient city of Patna. This politically and culturally important city is the state capital and home to around 2.5m people. The city is a hotspot for children who are running away… but also for those who wish them harm.
Date: 26th February 2025 | Author: Lucy Carman
Wherever Railway Children work in India, they come across children who began their journeys in Bihar. These children have run away for all kinds of reasons. Some are escaping violence, abuse or early marriage. Others are seeking a better life away from lack of food and unsanitary living conditions. And others are drawn by the promise of excitement and a chance to earn money – not realising the reality is very different.
That’s why, in 2024, Railway Children India extended their work along the extensive Delhi-Howrah trainline to cover the city of Patna. Intervening early in a child’s journey – before they even board a train – minimises the chances of them becoming lost to the streets, to abusers or to traffickers.
*Names have been changed and models used to protect identities.
Your money will be used wherever the need is greatest to support children across India, Tanzania and the UK.
The three-day route took cyclists from Ebbsfleet International to Dover, Dover to Brighton and Brighton to London Waterloo, raising vital funds to support vulnerable children.
Railway Children will feature in a special BBC Radio 4 Charity Appeal this September, shining a light on the challenges faced by street children in Tanzania and the life-changing support available through our work.
Railway Children marked 30 years of supporting vulnerable children with a special parliamentary reception at the House of Commons.
Subira is a family project worker for Railway Children in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Here is an exploration of her work and the impact that it has as she supports street-connected children and reunites families.
Learn about safeguarding and how it relates to child protection on transport networks.
No child wants to survive on the streets. And, through understanding and empowerment, together, we can ensure no child has to.
