Visakhapatnam: The Waltair division introduced specialized Hill Gangs to manage the rocky terrain and boulders in Ananthagiri Hills. These teams, equipped with safety gear and advanced equipment, are tasked with handling track and tunnel maintenance on the KK line.
To effectively manage the rocky landscape, Waltair division has deployed specialized Hill Gangs, supported by drone surveys for precise monitoring. Over 20 staff who underwent training this summer at the National Institute of Mountaineering in Arunachal Pradesh, focusing on techniques for navigating challenging terrains were deployed. An additional 30 personnel from the engineering, traction, and accident relief departments are scheduled for similar training in October, further enhancing the division's preparedness for emergencies.
To address potential disruptions caused by boulders blocking the tracks, a new track material relief train has been stationed at Shrungaravarapukota station. This train complements an existing unit at Araku and is equipped with essential tools such as proclain, compressors, and pneumatic breakers, which are vital for clearing boulders and maintaining track integrity.
Additionally, a newly established flying squad, equipped with hydraulic rerailing equipment and specialized materials, was deployed at Araku. This team will be on standby to respond swiftly to any incidents, ensuring that operations can resume with minimal delay.
In a bid to bolster safety and communication, emergency communication sockets have been installed at both ends of all tunnels along the KK line. Retroreflective indicator boards have also been placed in trolley and man refuges within the tunnels to assist patrolling trackmen during adverse weather conditions.
DRM Saurabh Prasad underlined that these measures are crucial for minimizing disruptions and expediting the restoration of services in the KK line which is vital for the transportation of iron ores and other essential goods.
