In a significant move to bolster railway safety and enable higher train speeds, the East Coast Railway (ECoR) has initiated a massive track fencing project worth over $120 million across various sections under its jurisdiction. The ambitious plan involves constructing safety fences along 2,792 kilometers of railway tracks at a cost of approximately $104 million. This measure aims to ensure safe train operations, prevent trespassing, and restrict the movement of cattle and wild animals near the tracks. Divisional Breakdown of the Project ECoR operates across three major divisions: Khurda Road, Sambalpur, and Waltair. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the project: Khurda Road Division: $47 million has been sanctioned for fencing work along a 1,025.3 km stretch. The next phase includes proposals for safety fencing in the Jakhapura-Kendujhargarh-Nayagarh Railway Section and other sensitive areas. Sambalpur Division: $35 million has been sanctioned for 468.23 km of fencing. Additionally, 188.89 km of fencing is under sanction between the Balangir-Theruvali-Singapur Road section, while 172.781 km is under proposal between Titilagarh and Lakholi. Waltair Division: $23 million has been allocated for a 600 km stretch of fencing. The project also includes $25 million under sanction for fencing works between Titilagarh & Lakholi and the Balangir-Theruvali-Singapur Road sections. Speed Enhancements and Project Progress The successful implementation of this project will facilitate train operations at speeds of 130 kmph and beyond in multiple sections. “Work has already commenced on two pilot sections near Bhubaneswar and Palasa Railway Stations, along with the Brahmapur-Golanthara Rail Section and in some sensitive locations over Sambalpur Division. As of now, 30 km of fencing has been completed,” the ECoR statement noted. This large-scale safety fencing initiative marks a crucial step toward improving operational efficiency and safety in one of India’s busiest railway zones.