Patna: The East Central Railway (ECR) rolled out a comprehensive set of safety measures across its five divisions to ensure smooth and secure operation of train services during the monsoon period.

ECR GM Chhatrasal Singh reviewed safety measures at a meeting with senior officials of the headquarters and divisional railway managers of the divisions on Thursday.According to the ECR's chief public relations officer (CPRO) Saraswati Chandra, railway authorities issued directives to all divisions — Danapur, Dhanbad, DDU, Samastipur and Sonepur — to maintain heightened vigilance over critical infrastructure, including rail bridges, tracks and other vulnerable spots.

"The move aims to mitigate the risks posed by waterlogging, landslides and reduced visibility during the monsoon," he said.In addition, railway safety teams were put on high alert with provisions made for the immediate deployment of sandbags, stone dust and boulders to protect track beds and embankments from erosion. "The overhanging tree branches near tracks are being trimmed to maintain clear visibility, especially at curve points where signal sighting is crucial for locomotive pilots," the CPRO said.

Round-the-clock patrolling has been mandated, particularly over bridges and water-prone areas, to monitor track conditions and act swiftly in the event of any abnormality. "This proactive approach is vital to maintaining service reliability and ensuring passenger safety during the monsoon," Chandra said.During the monsoons, railways will pay more attention to the functioning of the signalling system, which is crucial for operational safety. "Teams of railway safety staff were directed to conduct frequent checks and ensure all systems are in working order, he said, adding that railway field units were asked to coordinate closely with local weather agencies and disaster management teams to respond promptly in any emergency.