Udupi: With the onset of the southwest monsoon approaching in the Konkan region, the Konkan Railway Corporation Limited (KRCL) has intensified safety measures across its railway network by introducing enhanced night patrolling and deploying stationary watchmen at vulnerable locations round-the-clock to ensure safe train operations during the rainy season.

As part of its monsoon preparedness programme, KRCL organised a safety seminar on monsoon patrolling and conducted a live demonstration of patrolling procedures at Ratnagiri on June 3. The initiative was aimed at strengthening operational readiness and improving awareness among railway personnel responsible for maintaining safety during adverse weather conditions.

Night patrolling intensified on vulnerable stretches

Under the enhanced safety protocol, night patrolmen have been assigned the responsibility of carrying out foot patrols across designated railway sections from sunset to sunrise.

The patrol teams closely monitor railway tracks and surrounding areas for potential hazards such as soil erosion, landslides, boulder falls, flooding of tracks and other abnormalities that could affect train movement.

Officials said any unusual occurrence detected during patrols is immediately communicated to the nearest station master, enabling swift action to prevent disruptions or accidents.

The move is particularly significant during the monsoon season, when heavy rainfall often increases the risk of landslides, waterlogging and track-related safety concerns along the Konkan Railway route.

Patrol diary system plays key role

Each patrolman has been assigned a beat covering up to five kilometres and is required to maintain a patrol diary as part of the monitoring process.

The diary is exchanged with patrol personnel responsible for adjoining sections. Railway officials explained that the successful exchange and movement of the diary between adjoining stations serves as a crucial indicator that the railway stretch remains safe for train operations.

During the seminar, a live demonstration of the patrol diary exchange process was conducted to familiarise participants with the procedure and reinforce operational discipline.

Various emergency scenarios that could disrupt the exchange process were also simulated, helping participants understand the appropriate response mechanisms under challenging circumstances.

Seminar focuses on operational preparedness

The monsoon safety seminar brought together personnel from different departments involved in railway operations and maintenance.

The session was chaired by Santosh Kumar Jha, Chairman and Managing Director of KRCL, while Rajeev Kumar Mishra, Director (Way and Works), addressed the gathering and emphasised the importance of night patrolling in maintaining railway safety during the monsoon.

Officials highlighted that constant vigilance becomes essential during the rainy season, especially in hilly and landslide-prone sections where weather conditions can change rapidly.

The seminar served as a platform to reinforce safety protocols and ensure that field personnel remain prepared to handle emergencies effectively.

Around 175 personnel participate

The event witnessed the participation of around 175 railway personnel and officials involved in various operational roles.

Participants included trackmen, patrolmen, watchmen, station masters, supervisors from technical departments, loco pilots and train managers.

Through practical demonstrations and interactive sessions, participants gained a better understanding of monsoon patrolling responsibilities and the procedures to be followed during emergencies.

Fire safety awareness also highlighted

As part of the safety awareness initiative, KRCL also organised a live demonstration on the proper use of fire extinguishers.

The exercise was conducted to improve preparedness among railway staff and enhance their ability to respond effectively to fire-related emergencies.

Officials noted that combining monsoon safety training with fire safety awareness helps strengthen overall operational resilience and promotes a safer working environment for railway personnel.

Focus on safer train operations during monsoon

With the southwest monsoon expected to intensify in the coming weeks, KRCL has placed a strong emphasis on preventive safety measures to minimise risks and ensure uninterrupted railway operations.

The deployment of patrol teams, continuous monitoring of vulnerable locations and practical training programmes are expected to enhance preparedness across the network.

Officials said the seminar and demonstrations provided valuable hands-on experience to participants, helping them strengthen their understanding of monsoon safety procedures and contributing to safer train operations throughout the rainy season.