SECR Upgrades Level Crossings with Modern Infrastructure to Boost Safety and Efficiency
South East Central Railway (SECR) has replaced three level-crossings with modern railway infrastructure. This initiative is part of the railway’s ongoing mission to achieve “Zero Level-Crossing” and to improve the operational efficiency of the network.
In the last few months, SECR has focused on replacing level-crossings on key railway sections, including the Durg-Gondia and Gondia-Nagpur routes. The replacement strategy includes constructing road over bridges (RoBs), road under bridges (RuBs), and limited height subways (LHS). These upgrades aim to eliminate the risks associated with level-crossings, which have been a significant cause of accidents and disruptions in train services. The SECR has already completed the replacement of two level-crossings in the Durg-Gondia section. A new RoB was constructed between Paniajob and Bortalao, and a RuB replaced the level-crossing between Darekasa and Salekasa. Additionally, an LHS was built at the Gondia yard, further enhancing safety in the region.
These changes have had a positive impact on both rail and road traffic. By eliminating level-crossings, trains can now pass through these locations without interruptions, reducing delays and ensuring smoother and faster services. As a result, the trains experience improved speed management, contributing to better on-time performance. This infrastructure upgrade not only improves train operations but also provides benefits to road users. The removal of level-crossings significantly reduces traffic congestion and eliminates the risk of accidents at these locations. Furthermore, the replacement of level-crossings contributes to environmental benefits, such as fuel savings, reduced pollution, and less honking, as vehicles no longer need to wait for trains to pass. The SECR has ambitious plans for 2024-2025, setting a target to construct four RoBs and 21 LHS across various divisions. Currently, one RoB and two LHS are under construction, with further replacements planned throughout the year.
The push for replacing level-crossings gained momentum after a serious incident in July 2024 at Khaparkheda, where a school bus and a car became trapped at a level-crossing as a train approached, nearly endangering the lives of 40 students. This alarming event highlighted the need for swift action to replace level-crossings with safer alternatives. In response, SECR has accelerated its efforts to replace level-crossings across its network, especially in the Nagpur division, where the authorities have prioritised such safety measures. These actions are part of a broader railway-wide effort to improve freight and passenger transport efficiency while reducing the likelihood of accidents. By replacing level-crossings with RoBs, RuBs, and LHS, SECR is not only enhancing safety but also contributing to the economic viability of the railway sector. These improvements are vital for meeting growing demand, ensuring quicker train services, and making railway travel a safer and more efficient mode of transportation for everyone.
