Bhubaneswar, November 10: The East Coast Railway (ECoR) has launched a three-month special safety drive from November 10, 2026, to February 9, 2027, to ensure safe train operations during foggy and adverse weather conditions. The drive will cover Khurda Road, Sambalpur and Rayagada divisions, with the participation of officers, supervisors and staff from all departments.

The initiative focuses on strengthening station preparedness, ensuring signal visibility, maintaining essential safety equipment and improving the safety of running trains. Station Managers have been directed to maintain adequate stocks of detonators and ensure proper training of fog signalmen. Special attention will also be given to the visibility of signals and other safety indicators.

Fog Safety Devices (FSDs) will be made available at crew lobbies to help Loco Pilots identify signals during poor visibility. Retro-reflective boards, luminous strips and other visibility aids will also be maintained at signals and level crossing gates.

Loco Pilots and Assistant Loco Pilots have been instructed to exercise extra caution and regulate train speed according to visibility conditions. During fog, train speed must not exceed 75 kmph, depending on the Loco Pilot's judgement and signal indications. If the Fog Safety Device is unavailable or becomes defective during a journey, the maximum speed will be restricted to 60 kmph or below. Loco Pilots have also been advised to sound whistles frequently to alert road users and gatemen.

Train Managers will ensure compliance with prescribed speed restrictions and the proper functioning of flashing red tail lamps. Regular counselling of running staff will also be undertaken to reinforce safety procedures during foggy conditions.

The Engineering Department will conduct cold-weather patrolling at vulnerable locations, particularly those prone to rail fractures. Maintenance of tracks, trimming of tree branches and removal of bushes will also be undertaken. Meanwhile, Signal and Telecommunication staff will ensure proper functioning and visibility of signal lights, including regular cleaning of signal glasses and maintenance of luminous indicators.

Surprise night inspections and footplate inspections by railway officers and supervisors will also be conducted to assess safety arrangements and ensure strict compliance with operating procedures.

Through the special drive, East Coast Railway aims to minimise operational risks during foggy and adverse weather conditions, keeping passenger safety and the smooth operation of trains as its top priorities.