The East Coast Railway (ECoR) has significantly ramped up precautionary measures to safeguard train operations during the upcoming monsoon season, with a particular focus on protecting railway tracks, bridges, and vulnerable hill sections from heavy rainfall.
Drainage and Water Management
To prevent waterlogging and ensure smooth train movement, ECoR has cleared cross drains and longitudinal drains in station yards by removing silt, vegetation, and other obstructions. This ensures the free flow of rainwater. Additionally, waterways of bridges have been thoroughly cleaned to avoid any disruption during heavy showers, according to official sources.
Identification of Vulnerable Stretches
Railway authorities have identified several vulnerable stretches that are prone to sudden water flow across tracks and falling boulders during the rainy season. In response, track patrolling has been intensified, with patrolmen assigned to monitor sensitive locations round-the-clock. These patrolmen walk between stations, maintaining a close watch on tracks and bridges to detect any potential hazards early.
Emergency Preparedness and Stockpiling
To respond swiftly to emergencies, the three railway divisions under ECoR have stocked materials such as boulders, quarry dust, cinder, and sand at strategic locations. These supplies are ready for quick deployment in case of track damage. The ECoR General Manager has directed officials to remain on high alert throughout the monsoon season, with special attention to mud accumulation on tracks. An ECoR spokesperson stated, “Advance preparations and ground-level readiness are being ensured. Field officials have been asked to stay alert, while control rooms will maintain constant vigilance to monitor emergency situations.”
Protection Works in Ghat Sections
Large-scale protection and strengthening works are currently underway in vulnerable ghat sections of the Kottavalasa–Kirandul (KK), Koraput–Rayagada (KR), and Rayagada–Vizianagaram (RV) lines, which are prone to landslides and soil erosion. In the KK-I section, 910 metres of rockfall barriers, 30,621 square metres of wire mesh netting, and 25,830 metres of rock bolting have been completed. Similar progress has been made in the KK-II stretch, where targeted rockfall barriers and mesh works have been executed.
In the KR section, key stabilization works have also been completed, while protection activities are ongoing in the RV section between Lanjigarh Road and Rayagada. Officials said that modern techniques such as rock bolting, geomat laying, and tunnel strengthening are being prioritised to minimise risks and ensure uninterrupted train movement during the monsoon, as per the ECoR official statement.
