Train operations restored in Record Time

Hyderabad, Dec 17 (INN): In view of 'Pethai' which created havoc with heavy rains and cyclonic wind storms on coastal Andhra Pradesh, South Central Railway (SCR) General Manager Vinod Kumar Yadav held an emergency review with all Principal Heads of the Departments and Divisional Managers of the effected region today.

During this review, the General Manager critically analyzed the emergent situation and advised the concerned officials in tackling the Pethai cyclone due to which normalcy in train operations was restored within record time.

Elaborate arrangements have been planned meticulously to overcome the impact of 'Pethai Cyclone' by cancellation of 46 short distance passenger trains, 6 express trains. 9 long distance express trains have been rescheduled, 2 trains were diverted and another 3 express trains have been partially cancelled. Several long distance and important trains were suitably regulated to minimize the inconvenience to the rail passengers. All the Officers and Staff have been put on alert and preparedness to tackle any emergency. Monsoon Patrolling has been intensified by deploying the Watchmen at the identified bridges and vulnerable stretches to monitor the water levels of tanks and canals. Material and manpower has been mobilized in advance to restore the normalcy without delay.

The traction power supply of the Over Head Equipment (OHE) is turned off between Samalkot and Duvvada section for a length of 160 kms during the critical landfall time of Pethai Cyclone. Soon after, the landfall of Pethai Cyclone and receding rail fall the administration swung into action. Several tower cars with essential equipment have been pressed into service to check and restore the OHE equipment and fitness of the track. Entire section has been thoroughly inspected to restore the normalcy in train operations on war-foot.

Vinod Kumar Yadav complimented R. Dhananjayulu, Divisional Railway Manager, Vijayawada Division and his team of officials for their alertness and pro-active approach in restoring the normalcy of the train operations with minimum possible time. He also appreciated K. Padmaja, Chief Passenger Traffic Manager, South Central Railway for meticulously planning the train movements in-coordination with other Zonal Railways.

In order to monitor the situation on a 24 x 7 basis has been put into operation Helpline centers with special numbers have been installed at Vijayawada (9121271340, 9121271447, 0866-2576924), Guntur (9701379981, 0863-2254161), Guntakal (9701374075, 08552-220305).

Special counters have been opened at important stations for arranging refund of fares to passengers for the trains cancelled / short terminated. Frequent announcements at Railway Stations through PA systems and display through LED boards are also being made at all major stations.

Sufficient Catering arrangements were made at en-route stations for the passengers of trains being regulated. Food, water, snacks and tea have been supplied at free of cost to the stranded passengers for the trains being regulated at enroute stations. Mobilized non-governmental organizations to render help the stranded passengers. One NGO served around 1000 meals to the passengers travelling in long distance trains at Samalkot railway station. Doctors from Railways and private hospital near to the railway stations are also alerted for any emergency need at important railway stations.