Bhubaneswar, June 8: With the onset of the monsoon season, the East Coast Railway (ECoR) has launched a Special Safety Drive on “Monsoon Precautions” from 10th June to 25th September 2026 across Khurda Road, Sambalpur and Rayagada divisions to ensure safe, reliable and uninterrupted train operations during the rainy season.
The drive encompasses intensive inspections, preventive maintenance and close monitoring of railway assets susceptible to heavy rainfall. Special focus is being placed on tracks, bridges, culverts, tunnels, embankments, cuttings, drainage systems, signalling installations, electrical assets and overhead equipment. Water levels in rivers, bridges and culverts adjoining railway tracks will be closely monitored as part of the preparedness measures.
Particular attention is being given to vulnerable locations prone to flooding, erosion, landslides, hill slips and boulder falls. Protective structures such as retaining walls, boulder nets and river-training works are being thoroughly inspected and strengthened wherever necessary. Vegetation and bushes near bridges and track formations are also being cleared to facilitate effective monitoring and ensure better visibility during adverse weather conditions.
The monsoon safety drive includes intensified patrolling of vulnerable track sections, regular inspections of sensitive locations and deployment of watchmen at identified critical points. Adequate stocks of emergency materials, including sandbags, ballast and morrum, have been strategically positioned to enable swift response in case of any contingency.
Special attention is also being accorded to signalling and telecommunication systems, track circuits, relay rooms, point machines and location boxes to prevent disruptions arising from waterlogging and moisture ingress. Measures are being taken to ensure proper visibility of signals, trimming of overhanging tree branches and protection of electrical and signalling installations through effective earthing and surge protection arrangements.
In the traction and electrical sectors, detailed inspections of overhead equipment, switching posts, substations and locomotive equipment are being undertaken to safeguard against water ingress and maintain operational reliability during inclement weather.
Field staff across departments are being sensitized through monsoon preparedness programmes and safety briefings to ensure prompt and coordinated action during heavy rainfall, flooding, landslides, cyclonic conditions or any other weather-related emergencies.
Through this comprehensive preparedness initiative, East Coast Railway aims to enhance infrastructure resilience, strengthen operational safety and ensure punctual, dependable and safe rail services for passengers and freight customers throughout the monsoon season.
