In this handout photo released by the Northeast Frontier Railway, workers reinforce railway tracks as part of a series of strategic preparedness measures to ensure safe and uninterrupted train operation during the monsoon season. (Photo Courtesy: CPRO NFR)
Maligaon, April 28 (MExN): The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has initiated a series of strategic preparedness measures ahead of the monsoon season to ensure safe and uninterrupted train operations across the region.
According to an NFR release, the railway zone has deployed stationary watchmen at vulnerable locations to monitor track conditions and issue immediate alerts in case of danger, considering the region’s vulnerability to heavy rainfall, landslides and flooding.
Washout-prone and flood-sensitive stretches have been reinforced through embankment strengthening, improved drainage systems and clearance of natural water channels. Water level measuring gauges have also been installed at critical points, particularly in hill sections, to monitor rising water levels in real time.
To enable quick emergency response, NFR said relief materials such as boulders, sandbags and wire mesh have been positioned at strategic locations. “Emergency on Wheels” trains equipped with technical staff and essential tools have also been kept ready for deployment.
Rapid Response Teams have been constituted across all divisions to tackle landslides, track washouts and waterlogging with minimal delay, with the aim of restoring services quickly and reducing disruption to passenger and freight movement.
The release stated that large quantities of materials have been stocked across divisions as part of the 2026 monsoon preparedness plan. These include boulders, sand, quarry dust and cement bags in divisions such as Lumding, Tinsukia, Rangiya, Alipurduar and Katihar.
Rescue and recovery equipment including winch crabs, jacks, tirfors and tripods are also available across divisions.
NFR further informed that it is coordinating closely with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to receive real-time weather alerts and forecasts. Railway control rooms are functioning round the clock to facilitate proactive decisions on train movement and field deployment.
Passengers have been advised to stay updated through official communication channels and cooperate with railway authorities during the monsoon season.
