The East Coast Railway (ECoR) has taken significant steps to enhance passenger and operational safety by installing fencing along railway tracks within its jurisdiction. Officials confirmed that nearly 600 kilometers of fencing have already been completed out of the total 3,092 kilometer railway network in the zone, with work progressing in a phased manner.
Primary Objective: Curb Trespassing and Reduce Accidents
The initiative is primarily aimed at curbing trespassing and reducing accidents involving both humans and cattle, a recurring concern for railway authorities. Senior officials stated that vulnerable stretches, particularly those passing through densely populated areas and regions prone to cattle movement, are being prioritized for fencing. Around 300 kilometers of track within the ECoR have been specifically designed to prevent cattle runovers.
“Track intrusion is one of the major causes of accidents and disruptions in rail operations. By putting up fencing, we aim to significantly reduce such incidents while ensuring smoother train movement,” said a senior railway official.
Impact on Operations and Safety
Railway authorities noted that unauthorized crossings and stray cattle often lead to sudden braking, delays, and in some cases, derailments or fatalities. The fencing project is expected to mitigate these risks and improve overall operational efficiency. The work involves the installation of durable barriers along both sides of the tracks, using materials suited to local terrain and climatic conditions.
In addition to fencing, the railways are also focusing on awareness drives in nearby habitations to discourage track trespassing. Sources said the project aligns with Indian Railways’ broader push to modernize infrastructure and improve safety standards across the country. The phased execution is intended to ensure minimal disruption to existing train services while steadily expanding coverage.
Coordination with Local Authorities
Official sources said coordination with local authorities is underway to address issues such as access points for villagers and cattle crossings, ensuring that safety measures do not inconvenience communities. Once completed, the fencing across critical sections is expected to significantly reduce incidents of runovers and collisions, while boosting punctuality and reliability of train services in the region.
“Speed limits on different stretches in the ECoR have increased to 130 kilometers per hour. After completion of fencing, trains can increase their speeds further,” said a railway officer.
