Here is how NF Railway is preparing for monsoons

Guwahati: The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has undertaken several monsoon preparatory works on a mission mode, including mobilization of essential materials across its jurisdiction, which spans parts of West Bengal, Bihar, and the eight Northeastern states, covering over 6400 km of railway tracks, officials said on Saturday.  

Serving a difficult terrain near the foothills of the Lower Himalayan ranges, which receive up to 7000 mm of rainfall annually, NFR faces unique challenges during the monsoon period, typically spanning from mid-May to mid-October. In the Lumding division, this period begins in mid-April. The region is prone to landslides, rain-induced embankment cuts, and overflowing bridges, necessitating a comprehensive and proactive strategy to protect and maintain the railway tracks.

The southwest monsoon made an early arrival over the Northeastern states toward the end of May with heavy rains over the region, according to national media. This marks the beginning of the four-month monsoon season during which India receives nearly 70% of the annual rains.

Key preparatory activities completed before the onset of the monsoon include the collection of materials at sensitive locations, cleaning drainage systems and waterways of bridges, and marking danger levels on bridges. NFR has also deployed dedicated patrolling teams equipped with equipment such as GPS trackers, luminous jackets, raincoats, waterproof trousers, safety helmets, high-power searchlights, and mobile phones, it said in a release.

Notably, these teams conduct round-the-clock patrols based on rainfall alerts issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), monitoring the tracks for any defects caused by heavy rainfall. Additionally, stationary watchmen are stationed at landslide-prone sites and bridges where water levels are near danger marks.

In anticipation of potential disruptions, NFR has strategically placed materials like boulders, sand, sandbags, and pre-fabricated bridge components to facilitate quick restoration efforts. The monsoon reserve stock includes approximately 309,909 cubic meters of boulders, 17,426 cubic meters of quarry dust, 22,000 cubic meters of silt, 45,000 sand-filled bags, and 289,800 empty cement bags, ensuring readiness for any eventuality.

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