Northeast Frontier Railway Enhances Monsoon Preparedness for Safe Train Operations
Strategic Measures for Monsoon Safety
Guwahati, July 11: The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), based in Maligaon, has announced the implementation of comprehensive measures aimed at ensuring the safety and continuity of train services during the current monsoon season.
Due to the region's vulnerability to severe rainfall, landslides, and flooding, NFR has deployed watchmen at critical locations to monitor track conditions continuously. These personnel are tasked with issuing immediate alerts if any hazards are identified. Areas prone to washouts and flooding have been fortified through enhanced embankments, improved drainage systems, and the clearing of natural water pathways. Additionally, water level monitoring gauges have been installed at key points, especially in hilly regions, to track rising water levels in real-time, as stated by NFR's Chief Public Relations Officer, Kapinjal Kishore Sharma.
To facilitate quick responses during emergencies, NFR has positioned relief materials, including boulders, sandbags, and wire mesh, at strategic sites.
Sharma further explained, "Our 'Emergency on Wheels' trains are fully equipped with technical staff and essential tools, ready to respond swiftly to any situation. Rapid Response Teams have been established across all divisions to tackle incidents like landslides, track washouts, and waterlogging with minimal delay. These teams are trained to restore normal operations quickly, thereby reducing disruptions to both passenger and freight services."
He also mentioned that in the Lumding Division alone, 197 wagons filled with boulders and quarry materials have been strategically placed, including 144 wagons of boulders and 53 wagons of quarry materials at locations such as Jagiroad, Khatkhati, Shokhuvi, Maibong, and Badarpur. Other divisions, including Tinsukia (52 wagons), Rangiya (36 wagons), Alipurduar (20 wagons), and Katihar (40 wagons), have also received supplies in accordance with the monsoon preparedness plan. Furthermore, various types of winch crabs, jacks, tirfors, and tripods are available across all divisions to ensure readiness for rescue or recovery operations.