Maligaon, January 27 (MExN): The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) marked the 77th Republic Day with a ceremonial event at its Maligaon headquarters, showcasing its achievements in enhancing connectivity, safety, and infrastructure across the region.
General Manager Chetan Kumar Shrivastava unfurled the national flag in the presence of officials, staff, and their families. The ceremony featured a march past by contingents of the Railway Protection Force (RPF), Civil Defence, and Bharat Scouts & Guides. Similar flag-hoisting events were held across NFR's five divisions in Tinsukia, Lumding, Rangiya, Alipurduar, and Katihar, as well as at its Construction Organisation.
Addressing the gathering, Shrivastava underscored NFR’s evolving role as a strategic network driving economic growth and inclusive development in the Northeast. He cited key milestones, including the January 17 flag-off of India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Express between Kamakhya and Howrah, the introduction of six new Amrit Bharat Express and two LHB services, and the historic commissioning of the Bairabi–Sairang line in September 2025, which connected Aizawl to the national rail network for the first time.
Safety remained a central theme, with the GM reaffirming the mission of “One Hundred Percent Safety, Zero Risk.” He outlined several safety enhancements undertaken in the current financial year, including the installation of KAVACH anti-collision systems in 81 electric locomotives, commissioning of Electronic Interlocking at 12 stations, and interlocking of 11 level crossing gates. Infrastructure resilience was bolstered by the elimination of 21 manned level crossings, completion of 17 Road Over/Under Bridges (ROB/RUB), and the removal of 16 permanent speed restrictions.
On passenger amenities, Shrivastava reported significant strides, with 17 new train pairs introduced and 87 mail/express trains given additional stoppages since April 2025. Over the last nine months, 145 Automatic Ticket Vending Machines (ATVMs) were installed at 71 stations, alongside the commissioning of 13 Foot Over Bridges (FOBs), 3 high-level platforms, 10 platform extensions, and 18 passenger platform sheds.
Electrification progress was highlighted, with NFR achieving over 96% electrification, covering 4,170 route kilometres so far. Redevelopment works under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme are underway at 92 stations.
The railway zone also reported strong operational performance, with freight loading reaching 8.250 Metric Tonnes (a 6.7% increase) and ticket checking earnings growing by over 37%. Approximately 22,000 employees underwent training across NFR institutes during the period.
Highlighting environmental vigilance, Shrivastava noted that timely actions by staff in coordination with forest authorities helped save more than 160 elephants in 2025.
On the occasion, the GM presented the Karmveer Puraskar to employees for exemplary bravery and dedication. He also noted that upgraded sports infrastructure has enabled NFR sportspersons to excel at national and international levels, bringing consistent laurels to the organisation.
