Indian Railways implements precautionary measures for cyclonic storm Biparjoy

Ensures safety and to minimize disruption in Saurashtra and Kutch areas

Kolkata/Jamshedpur, June 12: As the extremely severe cyclonic storm “Biparjoy” intensifies over the East Central Arabian Sea, Indian Railways has implemented a comprehensive action plan to ensure the safety of passengers and minimize the impact of the cyclone. The storm is expected to affect the Saurashtra and Kutch areas, including Bhavnagar, Mahuva, Veraval, Porbandar, OKHA, HAPA, and Gandhidham.

In response to the cyclone, Indian Railways has taken precautionary measures to ensure safety and minimize disruption in Saurashtra and Kutch areas.

A dedicated Disaster Management Room has been set up at the Zonal Railway headquarters, which is manned round-the-clock by various departments to facilitate coordinated efforts.

Emergency control rooms have been established at division headquarters in Bhavnagar, Rajkot, Ahmedabad, and Gandhidham to ensure swift communication and decision-making.

Multiple locations are being monitored for wind speed, with instructions in place to regulate or halt train operations if the wind velocity exceeds 50 kmph. Anemometers have been installed at stations to provide hourly readings of wind speed.Online groups have been formed to facilitate real-time monitoring and coordination among relevant stakeholders. The cyclone-related information is being continuously monitored through the mausam.imd.gov.in website.Indian Railways has ensured the availability of sufficient diesel locomotives and coaching rakes for emergency evacuation purposes.

Loading of double stack containers has been suspended, and their movement has been restricted during the cyclone period.

Passenger train schedules have been reviewed, and necessary decisions will be made based on the cyclone situation to ensure the safety of passengers. A relief train has been prepared to address any emergency situation promptly. Loco Pilots and Assistant Loco Pilots have been counseled regarding safety protocols during cyclone/storm conditions. Necessary arrangements, including food and medical supplies, have been made at various Running Rooms meant for crew rest.

To allow for the free passage of wind, instructions have been given to keep the doors and windows of coaches open. Intensive footplate inspections have been conducted to closely monitor the condition of tracks and infrastructure. Alternate communication arrangements, including emergency control rooms with satellite phones and VHF sets, have been established. Additionally, alternate power arrangements have been made in case of power grid supply failure.

Detailed arrangements have been made for the availability of reserve materials, machinery, and manpower. Various agencies with heavy earthmoving machinery, trucks, pumps, and other necessary equipment have been put on alert. Continuous patrolling of tracks and bridges is being conducted to identify and address any issues promptly. Prior securing of sheets has been done to protect station platform shelters from the cyclone’s impact.

Traffic restrictions will be imposed on bridges if the wind speed exceeds 60 kmph. Monsoon precautions will be fully implemented. Tree Cutting: Vulnerable trees near the tracks have been identified and cut to prevent any damage or obstruction during the cyclone. Special safety instructions, including the closure of level crossing booms and withdrawal of staff from porta cabins functioning from level crossings, have been issued. OHE (Overhead Equipment) and transmission lines are being monitored, and standby power devices have been provisioned. Inspection and liaison with electricity authorities have been ensured. Installation of DG sets and availability of spare parts for signaling and telecommunication systems have been ensured. Emergency communication devices, including FCT, satellite phones, and walkie-talkies, are in place. ART (Accident Relief Trains) and ARMEs (Accident Relief Medical Equipment) are ready at strategic locations to provide immediate assistance in case of any mishap. Strict instructions have been given to staff to use personal protective equipment for their safety.

A Railway Protection Special Force (RPSF) company has been deployed to assist in emergencies. RPSF companies from nearby divisions have also been stationed in the cyclone-prone region to meet any emergency situation.

Catering stalls will remain open during the cyclone period, with sufficient stocks of water and food. Regular announcements will be made to keep passengers informed about the cyclone’s status. Help desks have been set up at various stations in the affected areas, and tie-ups with state transport services have been made for passenger shifting if required. Ambulances and sufficient medicines have been kept ready at hospitals and health units. Railway medical teams are in contact with state medical authorities and empaneled hospitals to coordinate and provide assistance in case of emergency medical needs. Local hospitals have also been alerted to handle any casualties. As Cyclone “Biparjoy” approaches, Indian Railways is fully prepared to ensure the safety and well-being of passengers and mitigate any potential disruptions to train operations.