6 days ago
KRCL rolls out monsoon action plan
Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd. (KRCL) has activated a proactive and comprehensive action plan covering key areas, including infrastructure reinforcement, real-time monitoring, patrolling and emergency response aimed at minimising service disruptions and enhancing passenger safety along its rugged terrain during the Monsoon.
KRCL in a release here said extensive cleaning of catchwater drains and inspection of cuttings across the route were conducted. With ongoing and completed geo-safety works reducing instances of boulder falls and soil slippages, there were no major disruptions in the last decade.
It has deployed 636 trained personnel for 24/7 patrolling at vulnerable locations while placing BRN-mounted excavators strategically at Chiplun, Ratnagiri, Kankavali and Verna for rapid response. Rail Maintenance Vehicles were stationed at Veer, Chiplun, Ratnagiri, Rajapur Road, Kudal, Verna, Karwar, Bhatkal and Udupi. Tower Wagons were kept ready at Mangaon, Chiplun, Ratnagiri, Kankavali, Karmali, Karwar and Udupi.
Emergency aid
KRCL has instructed loco pilots to reduce train speed to 40 km/h during low visibility caused by heavy rainfall. Self-Propelled Accident Relief Medical Vans with operation theatres and emergency medical aid were stationed at Ratnagiri and Verna, while an Accident Relief Train was stationed at Verna. In situations where water exceeds 100mm over the rails, train services will be temporarily suspended.
It has provided mobile phones to safety personnel for emergency communication, while loco pilots and guards were given walkie-talkies. All stations have 25-Watt VHF sets ensuring seamless wireless coordination. Emergency Communication sockets were installed every 1 km for immediate contact between patrolmen, watchmen, loco pilots, guards and other field maintenance staff with control offices.
While LED signals were installed for enhanced visibility during low-light or foggy conditions, self-recording rain gauges were active at nine key stations. Flood warning systems were functional at key bridges. Anemometers were installed on major viaducts and bridges to monitor wind speeds. Control rooms at three stations work 24/7.
KRCL would implement the Monsoon Timetable from June 15 to October 20 wherein trains would run at reduced speeds.
