Bhubaneswar, Aug. 7 (UDN): With heavy rainfall forecast across several parts of Odisha, the East Coast Railway (ECoR) has intensified its monsoon preparedness by placing field personnel on high alert and activating a comprehensive safety plan to ensure uninterrupted and safe train operations.
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Railway officials said enhanced surveillance has been launched across vulnerable sections of the network, particularly in low-lying areas, flood-prone stretches, bridges, embankments susceptible to erosion and locations vulnerable to landslides or falling boulders.
As part of the monsoon action plan, special patrolling teams have been deployed to monitor track conditions round the clock. Patrolmen, watchmen and engineering staff have been instructed to immediately report any signs of track instability, waterlogging or structural damage that could affect train movement.
Sectional gangmen have also been directed to carry out intensive inspections whenever heavy rainfall is reported, enabling timely detection of potential hazards and ensuring the safe passage of trains.
The railway administration has undertaken several preventive measures to minimise the impact of heavy rain on infrastructure. Side drains, catch-water drains and waterways beneath railway bridges have been cleaned and desilted to facilitate smooth drainage and prevent flooding of tracks and station yards.
Special emphasis has also been placed on protecting signalling and communication systems, which are particularly vulnerable during the monsoon. Joint inspections by engineering and signalling teams have been conducted at critical locations to identify and rectify potential weak points. Axle counters have also been installed at selected waterlogging-prone sections to ensure reliable train detection even under adverse weather conditions.
To enhance emergency preparedness, the East Coast Railway has strategically positioned essential materials, including boulders, ballast, sand and quarry dust, for immediate restoration work if required. Engineering relief trains, relief vans and emergency bridge equipment have also been kept on standby for rapid deployment in the event of any disruption.
Officials said the railway is maintaining close coordination with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Odisha government to receive real-time weather updates and respond swiftly to changing conditions. The ECoR Control Office and Disaster Management Cell are monitoring the situation round the clock to ensure passenger safety and minimise disruptions to rail services during the ongoing monsoon season.