New zone begins new journey
Visakhapatnam: A historic chapter was added to the annals of Indian Railways with the commencement of operations of the newly formed South Coast Railway (SCoR), headquartered at Visakhapatnam on Monday.
Union Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu said commencement of the South Coast Railway Zone is an emotional and long-cherished dream fulfilled for the people of Andhra Pradesh, particularly Uttarandhra.
He said it was truly a special moment as he witnessed the welcome plaque of the South Coast Railway Zone along the tracks near Itchapuram, symbolising the beginning of a new chapter in the region's development journey. He planted saplings near the welcome board, marking this milestone.
He said throughout his tenure the Railway Zone remained a matter of special focus and commitment. Seeing this vision become a reality is immensely satisfying and heartening, he said.
Marking this momentous occasion, General Manager, South Coast Railway, Sandeep Mathur, extended a warm welcome in Visakhapatnam to officers and staff joining the new zone.
Sandeep Mathur stated that the formation of South Coast Railway aimed at enhancing administrative efficiency, strengthening operational effectiveness, and improving passenger and freight services. He emphasised that the new zone would play a pivotal role in accelerating infrastructure growth and fostering economic development across the region.
During the meeting, the System Map of South Coast Railway was formally unveiled, showcasing the jurisdiction and network of the newly created zone. He stated that creating of a new zone is a rare event in history of Indian Railways. It signifies not only administrative restructuring but also a renewed commitment to efficiency, development and enhanced service delivery.
Underscoring the paramount importance of railway safety, the General Manager convened a comprehensive Safety Review Meeting, making it clear that safety would remain the foremost priority of the new zone.
Divisional Railway Managers gave presentation on the Divisions that are integrating with the new Zone, elaborate discussions on asset management, human resource management, challenges to be addressed and resolved etc were highlighted in the meeting.
The Safety Review Meeting was attended by the Lalit Bohra, Divisional Railway Manager, Visakhapatnam Division; Mohit Sonakiya, Divisional Railway Manager, Vijayawada Division; Sudeshna Sen, Divisional Railway Manager, Guntur Division; Chandra Shekhar Gupta Divisional Railway Manager, Guntakal Division, along with Principal Heads of Departments (PHODs) and senior officers from various branches. Detailed discussions were held on operational safety, infrastructure maintenance, safety audits, accident prevention measures, crew counseling, inspection drives, and strengthening of safety practices across the zone. General Manager directed all departments to work in close coordination and ensure strict adherence to safety protocols to achieve the highest standards of safe train operations.
Sandeep Mathur expressed confidence that the collective efforts of officers and staff, Team Work, would enable South Coast Railway to emerge as one of the most efficient and progressive railway zones in the country.
The operationalisation of South Coast Railway marks the beginning of a transformative journey for rail transportation, paving the way for enhanced connectivity, improved services, and sustained development.
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