Bhubaneswar: East Coast Railway has launched a three month-long special safety drive from November 10, 2026, to February 9, 2027, to ensure safe train operations during foggy and inclement weather conditions. The drive is being conducted across Khurda Road, Sambalpur and Rayagada Divisions, involving officers, supervisors and staff of all departments.
As part of the initiative, special emphasis is being given to preparedness at stations, safety of running trains, visibility of signals and availability of essential safety equipment. Station Managers have been instructed to ensure adequate availability of detonators and proper training of fog signalmen.
Visibility of signals and prescribed visibility test objects will be regularly monitored, and fog conditions affecting signal visibility will be promptly reported to the concerned control offices.
Adequate Fog Safety Devices (FSDs) will be ensured at crew lobbies to assist Loco Pilots in identifying signals during restricted visibility. Retro reflective indications, luminous strips and visibility boards will also be maintained at signals, level crossing gates and other important locations to improve visibility.
Loco Pilots and Assistant Loco Pilots have been advised to exercise utmost caution and regulate train speed according to visibility conditions. During fog, train speed shall not exceed 75 kmph, subject to the Loco Pilot’s judgement and prescribed signal aspects. In case the Fog Safety Device is unavailable or becomes defective during the journey, the maximum speed shall be reduced to 60 kmph or less. Loco Pilots have also been advised to whistle frequently to alert gatemen and road users about approaching trains.
Train Managers have been instructed to ensure adherence to prescribed speed restrictions and proper functioning of flashing red tail lamps on the last vehicle of trains during conditions of impaired visibility. Running staff will also be counselled regularly regarding safety precautions and operaing procedures during foggy weather.
The Engineering Department will undertake cold weather patrolling at rail fracture prone and other vulnerable locations. Trimming of tree branches, removal of bushes and maintenance of track infrastructure will also receive special attention. Signal & Telecommunication staff will ensure proper visibility and functioning of signal lights, cleaning of signal glasses and maintenance of luminous indications at level crossings.
In addition, surprise night inspections and footplate inspections by officers and supervisors will be conducted to assess safety preparedness and ensure compliance with prescribed procedures. Regular counselling of railway staff and monitoring of safety measures will continue throughout the drive.
Through this special initiative, East Coast Railway is taking comprehensive measures to minimise operational risks during foggy and inclement weather, with the safety of passengers and train operations remaining the highest priority.
