Odisha: ECoR Forms Special ‘Hill Gangs’ & Tunnel Maintenance Teams For Monsoon Operations On KK Line

Bhubaneswar: To ensure uninterrupted train operations during the challenging monsoon season, East Coast Railway (ECoR) has taken up a series of proactive measures on Kothavalasa-Kirandul (KK) Line, crucial for iron ore traffic.

Recognising the unique challenges posed by the valley and hilly regions, ECoR has formed specialised ‘Hill Gangs’ and dedicated Tunnel Maintenance Teams.

Over 20 staff members received advanced training this summer at the National Institute of Mountaineering under the Ministry of Defence in Arunachal Pradesh. Building on this initiative, an additional 30 personnel from the Engineering, Traction, and Accident Relief Departments are scheduled to undergo specialised training at the same institute in October.

The focus is on equipping these teams with new emergency tools and communication systems to swiftly address any disruptions, particularly in sensitive areas along the KK Line, ECoR said in a release on Tuesday.

In a bid to further enhance track maintenance capabilities, ECoR has introduced a new Track Material Relief Train on an experimental basis in the Boddavara-Borraguhalu Ghat section.

Positioned at Shrungaravarapukota Station, this train complements the existing facility at Araku and is equipped with essential tools such as Proclain, compressors, and pneumatic breakers. This strategic placement will significantly reduce response times in case of boulder obstructions or other track-related emergencies.

Adding to the safety measures, a new flying squad, outfitted with hydraulic rerailing equipment and essential materials, has been deployed at Araku. This squad is prepared to handle emergencies swiftly, ensuring minimal disruption to train operations.

To further enhance safety, ECoR has installed emergency communication sockets at both ends of all tunnels and inside longer tunnels on the KK Line. Additionally, trolley and man refuges in tunnels have been marked with retroreflective indicator boards to aid patrolling trackmen, ensuring clear guidance and swift action during emergencies.