Konkan Railway unveils monsoon safety plan

Margao: The Konkan Railway Corporation Limited (KRCL) has unveiled an action plan to ensure safe and uninterrupted rail services across the Konkan region during the monsoon. The plan aims to reinforce infrastructure, implement real-time monitoring, conduct intensive patrolling, and establish a robust emergency response.

Deputy GM (public relations) Baban Ghatge said there were “zero major disruptions” from boulder falls during monsoon over the past ten years on the Konkan route, crediting ongoing geo-safety projects for the improved safety.

KRCL deployed 636 personnel for 24/7 patrolling at vulnerable spots, supported by heavy machinery, including excavators, at Chiplun, Ratnagiri, Kankavali, and Verna. Rail maintenance vehicles have been placed at nine locations from Veer to Udupi, with tower wagons on standby at seven points for emergencies.

Safety protocols mandate a 40 km/h speed limit during low visibility due to heavy rainfall. Medical vans with operation theatres have been stationed at Ratnagiri and Verna, and an accident relief train at Verna can be mobilised within 15 minutes. Services will be temporarily suspended if water levels exceed 100mm and resume once conditions normalise.

Konkan Railway enhanced safety by upgrading communication systems by providing mobile phones to safety staff and walkie-talkies to loco pilots and guards. Self-recording rain gauges, flood warning systems, and anemometers on four major bridges help monitor weather and LED signals enhance visibility.

The monsoon timetable (June 15–Oct 20) features adjusted sectional speeds for safety. Control rooms in Belapur, Ratnagiri, and Margao coordinate operations, with medical teams stationed at six strategic locations.