Gujarat: Ahmedabad DRM reviews monsoon preparedness as Western Railway steps up safety measures
Ahmedabad, July 6
Ahmedabad Divisional Railway Manager Ved Prakash on Monday conducted an extensive inspection of monsoon preparedness and ongoing infrastructure works across key sections of the Ahmedabad Division, with a focus on ensuring uninterrupted train operations and passenger safety during the rainy season.
The inspection covered the Ahmedabad-Barejadi and Ahmedabad-Viramgam railway sections, where the DRM reviewed drainage arrangements, waterlogging prevention measures and redevelopment projects at stations across the division.
During the inspection, Ved Prakash assessed the steps taken to prevent waterlogging on railway tracks during heavy rainfall.
He directed officials to ensure that drains and bridges alongside the tracks are cleaned regularly so that rainwater can flow freely. Railway Under Bridges (RUBs) were also inspected to verify that water accumulation does not disrupt road traffic during the monsoon.
Reviewing ongoing infrastructure projects, the DRM inspected the construction of the fourth railway line between Ahmedabad-Kankaria and Vatva.
Railway officials said the additional line is expected to reduce operational pressure on Ahmedabad Junction and improve the punctuality of train services once completed.
The inspection also included visits to Viramgam station, Jakhwada station, Ahmedabad station and a railway colony, where the DRM reviewed passenger amenities and cleanliness arrangements.
He instructed officials to maintain high standards of hygiene at both stations and railway residential colonies. He said, "The cleanliness drive should continue as a sustained exercise rather than a one-time activity".
He also directed health and sanitation inspectors to ensure effective waste disposal arrangements at railway stations.
Senior divisional officers accompanied the DRM during the inspection and briefed him on several measures undertaken by the authorities.
Concluding the review, Ved Prakash instructed officials to ensure that field staff remain fully alert and prepared to respond promptly to any emergency situation arising during the monsoon, with the aim of maintaining safe and smooth railway operations throughout the season.
— IANS
Reader Comments
The fourth railway line between Ahmedabad-Kankaria and Vatva is long overdue - Ahmedabad Junction gets so congested especially during peak hours. Once completed, it might actually help with punctuality. But we've been hearing about infrastructure projects for years and they always seem to get delayed. Fingers crossed this one proceeds on time! 🙏
As someone who travels on the Ahmedabad-Viramgam route frequently, I appreciate the focus on waterlogging prevention. But I wish they'd also look at the passenger amenities at smaller stations like Jakhwada - basic facilities like proper waiting areas and clean washrooms are still lacking. Safety is important, but so is passenger comfort.
The DRM's directive to keep field staff alert during monsoon is crucial. In 2021, we saw how quickly things can go wrong when tracks get submerged and there's no immediate response. Regular cleaning of drains and bridges is not a one-time thing - haan, it should be a continuous process like he said. Let's hope this isn't just a PR exercise before the media. 🙂
Typical government inspection - lots of talk about cleanliness and waste disposal, but the ground reality at Ahmedabad station is very different. The platforms are often littered, and during rains the stench from clogged drains is unbearable. DRM sahab should do surprise visits without prior notice to see the real situation. Tab jaake sudhaar hoga!
It's reassuring that senior divisional officers briefed the DRM on the measures. But I wonder about the maintenance of the Railway Under Bridges (RUBs) - during
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