Mangaluru: Madhukar Roat officially assumed charge as the new Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of Southern Railway’s Palakkad division on Thursday, succeeding Arun Kumar Chaturvedi. Roat, a 1997-batch officer of the Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS), brings with him vast experience from multiple zones across Indian Railways.
Prior to this appointment, he served as Chief Freight Traffic Manager (CFTM) in North Western Railway, Jaipur. His career includes key roles in the Northeast Frontier Railway, Western Railway, and a deputation stint as Chief General Manager at CONCOR, Ahmedabad.
While posted in Ahmedabad division, Roat played a vital role in developing Private Freight Terminals (PFTs), boosting freight operations significantly. He was also instrumental in the rollout of the Non-Government Railway (NGR) operations policy at Kandla Port, a major milestone in freight reform.
Clean India Campaign Launched
In line with Independence Day celebrations, Roat kickstarted the Swachhata Abhiyan in the Palakkad division, focusing on cleanliness and environmental awareness. The campaign runs in two phases: August 1–15 and August 16–October 31.
He inaugurated the drive by leading a Swachhata Pledge ceremony at the divisional office, involving staff and students of Railway Higher Secondary School, Palakkad. A walkathon from the office to Palakkad Junction followed, drawing energetic participation from officials and the public.
To amplify the message, a street play is scheduled at Palakkad Junction, and selfie points themed around cleanliness have been installed across key stations.