The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) is taking significant strides in enhancing passenger safety and ensuring the smooth flow of train operations by installing high-resolution CCTV cameras at various Level Crossing (LC) gates across its network. This strategic move aims to eliminate potential risks associated with train movements at these crucial intersections.
According to Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, the Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of the Northeast Frontier Railway, a total of 28 LC gates have already been equipped with these surveillance systems across key divisions. This includes 4 gates in the Alipurduar Division, 17 in the Lumding Division, and 7 in the Tinsukia Division. He emphasized that these installations will empower railway staff to proactively manage gate operations and effectively prevent potential hazards such as unauthorized access or obstructions caused by vehicles.
Mr. Sharma further elaborated that this initiative forms a crucial part of NFR’s broader strategy to minimize human error, reduce incidents at level crossings, and guarantee secure and uninterrupted train movements. The comprehensive CCTV coverage at these major intersections will significantly enhance vigilance, expedite emergency response times, and provide valuable data for informed safety management practices. Additionally, 9 Internet Protocol-based CCTV cameras have been installed at Railway Protection Force (RPF) posts spanning the Katihar, Alipurduar, Lumding, and Tinsukia divisions, further strengthening security measures.
Expanding its surveillance capabilities, the NFR has also installed 6 cameras at Intermediate Block Signalling (IBS) huts within the Hasimara – Kalchini section of the Alipurduar Division. This strategic deployment aims to bolster surveillance at these remote and critical signalling locations.
As part of its ongoing infrastructure modernization efforts, the Northeast Frontier Railway has implemented an interlocking system at important LC gates across its various divisions. This advanced system ensures that the operation of the gates is fully synchronized with approaching train movements. By enabling the barriers to operate in direct coordination with trains, the NFR aims to guarantee smooth and safe crossings for all. This technological integration is set to optimize operational safety and provide enhanced protection for both passengers and road users navigating these crossings.
Adding another layer of safety at level crossings, the railway has introduced 29 Sliding Boom Barriers at LC gates across the Katihar, Alipurduar, Lumding, and Tinsukia divisions. Furthermore, in a move to enhance infrastructure and ensure even safer crossings, Rubberised Surfacing is being introduced at 15 LC gates within the Lumding Division. This upgrade is expected to significantly reduce the risk of vehicle skidding and ensure safer, more efficient crossings for road users, thereby improving the overall road-track interface. The CPRO affirmed the Northeast Frontier Railway’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and upholding the highest standards of operational safety, emphasizing that these initiatives underscore NFR’s dedicated efforts to modernize infrastructure, enhance security, and provide a secure, seamless, and comfortable travel experience for all passengers.