SECR Replaces Level Crossings to Reduce Train and Road Traffic

13 Jan 2025 CW Team

The South East Central Railway (SECR) has recently replaced two level crossings on the Durg-Gondia section by constructing a new road over bridge (RoB), road under bridge (RuB), and a limited height subway (LHS) on the Gondia-Nagpur section. This initiative is part of the SECR's mission to eliminate level crossings, aiming to enhance operational efficiency, reduce delays, and improve road traffic flow. The replacement of level crossings with RoBs, RuBs, and LHS is a key part of a broader safety and efficiency campaign by railway divisions across India, following a directive from the Railway Board. These upgrades also contribute to accident prevention. For the 2024-25 period, SECR has set a target to construct four RoBs and 21 LHS, with construction already underway for one RoB and two LHS. Besides improving safety and easing the movement of both train and road traffic, replacing level crossings is also considered a cost-effective solution for the railways. The recent improvements include the construction of a new RoB between Paniajob and Bortalao, another RuB between Darekasa and Salekasa, and an LHS at Gondia yard. These upgrades eliminate level crossings at these locations, allowing uninterrupted train movement and reducing delays. "Trains can now pass through these areas without interruption, improving speed management and reducing traffic congestion. This also leads to fuel savings, lower pollution, and less honking," said an SECR official. In July 2024, a serious security incident at the Khaparkheda level crossing, where a school bus and car were trapped as a train approached, highlighted the urgency of replacing level crossings. Following this near-miss, SECR has accelerated efforts to replace more crossings, with the Nagpur division under Divisional Railway Manager Deepak Kumar Gupta focusing on the swift replacement of crossings to further enhance safety and improve freight movement. (ET)

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