Bhubaneswar: In a significant move to enhance railway safety and increase train speeds, East Coast Railway has initiated the safety fencing project in the Bhubaneswar-Palasa Railway Section.
The work has commenced on two small patches near Bhubaneswar and Palasa Railway Stations over the Khurda Road Division along with the Brahmapur-Golanthara Rail Section. Till now, about 07 Kms stretch of Safety fencing work has already been completed.
Double W Metal Beam Crash Barriers have been installed about 3.9 Km, i.e. 2400 meters near the Palasa area and 1500 meters in the Brahmapur-Golanthara Railway Section. Apart from this, 1600 meters of Fixed Knot fence barriers have been installed near the Bhubaneswar area. These locations have been identified for fencing as the bank height is almost rail level and cattle are frequently crossing the track.
This safety fencing will not only ensure safe train operations but also restrict unauthorized trespassing, cattle grazing near the railway tracks, and movements of wild animals near the rail line.
To ensure effective fencing and avoid any disruptions, the Ministry has decided to construct boundary walls closer to the tracks. The current plan involves erecting fencing at the boundary of Railway Land, with the actual distance to be determined by the zonal railway authorities based on site conditions, maintenance requirements, multi-tracking works, the level of trespassing, and the overall effectiveness of the proposed fencing.
The initiative also aims to seal the entry to tracks at level crossings, ROBs (flyovers), RUBs (underpasses), bridges, and other critical locations requiring access control. This measure will not only restrict cattle grazing near the railway line but also provide smooth traffic movement and prevent the loss of livestock and wildlife.
The Ministry of Railways recently sanctioned ₹275.01 crore for the provision of safety fencing along tracks in the Bhadrak-Palasa and Khurda Road-Puri Railway Sections of the Khurda Road Division under East Coast Railway. This project aims to facilitate the safe operation of trains at speeds up to 130 kmph and beyond.
The Ministry of Railways remains committed to advancing railway safety and infrastructure to meet the growing demands of semi-high-speed train travel in India. This safety fencing project marks a significant step towards achieving these goals, ensuring a safer and more efficient railway network for the nation.