Shri Mohit Sonakiya, DRM, Vijayawada Division conducts Comprehensive Inspection of Kakinada Rail-Port Infrastructure

 

Focus on Safety, Freight Efficiency, and Staff Welfare

Shri Mohit Sonakiya, Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), Vijayawada Division, South Central Railway, conducted an extensive inspection of vital railway infrastructure in the Kakinada region on 3rd August 2025. The inspection spanned Kakinada Town Station, Kakinada Port Station, and the Kakinada Seaport Pvt. Ltd. (KSPL), covering a wide spectrum of operations, including freight handling, safety preparedness, and staff amenities.

At Kakinada Town, Shri Mohit Sonakiya, DRM reviewed the Intermediate Overhaul (IOH) Shed, where he interacted with maintenance staff and examined safety compliance in coach servicing activities. He emphasised the critical role that backend teams play in ensuring smooth train operations and passenger safety.

“Safety starts in the sheds. Our technical teams are the first line of defence. Their precision and alertness directly impact the safety of thousands of passengers every day,” Shri Sonakiya said during his visit.

The inspection also included the Running Room at Kakinada, where the DRM reviewed rest and refreshment facilities for the operating crew. He assured the staff that crew welfare remains a top priority for the Division and directed officers to further enhance crew amenities, particularly in hygiene, nutrition, and digital logbook systems. He expressed appreciation for the hardworking staff who form the backbone of operations and reiterated the Division’s commitment to improving working conditions. “Our staff are our most valuable asset. Ensuring they have safe working environments, proper rest, and adequate facilities is not just a responsibility—it’s a necessity for operational excellence,” said Shri Mohit Sonakiya.

Moving on to Kakinada Port Station, Shri Sonakiya evaluated freight handling operations at the Kakinada Port Station Yard, Goods Sidings, and the interface with private terminals. He took a detailed review of the yard layout, shunting patterns, and the flow of wagons in coordination with Kakinada Seaport Pvt. Ltd. (KSPL).

“Kakinada Port is a critical freight node on our network. Seamless coordination between the station, KSPL sidings, and terminal operators is key to faster wagon turnaround and higher throughput,” Shri Mohit Sonakiya stated.

Throughout the inspection, special emphasis was laid on ensuring safety norms, proper maintenance practices, and real-time coordination between departmental staff and private operators. The DRM encouraged staff to stay vigilant, adopt technology-driven practices, and report safety observations without hesitation.

Senior officials from the Operating, Mechanical, Commercial, Security and Safety Departments accompanied the DRM during the inspection. The visit underscores Vijayawada Division’s commitment to efficiency, safety, and workforce empowerment in driving forward India’s freight growth story.

SCR BZA PR No.81
Date: 3rd August 2025