Vijayawada Division Ensures Passenger Safety, Sanitation, and Community Readiness During Cyclone “Montha”

The Vijayawada Division of South Central Railway has been operating in full alert mode to ensure the safety, comfort, and seamless movement of passengers during the impact of Cyclone Montha. With meticulous planning and coordinated efforts, the Division has mobilised men and machinery round the clock to meet any emergency situation arising due to the cyclone’s effect on train operations.

As part of precautionary measures, Train No. 20806 Andhra Pradesh Express (New Delhi – Visakhapatnam) was safely terminated on Platform No. 6 at Vijayawada Station. A total of 329 passengers were deboarded and guided with utmost care by officials and staff from Commercial and RPF Department to the waiting halls on Platform No. 1, where all essential arrangements, including seating and refreshments, were made available. Passengers were accommodated in Howrah-bound trains on the same tickets, ensuring their onward travel without additional charges or inconvenience. All catering stalls at Vijayawada station remained open throughout the night, providing continuous service and assistance to passengers. The detailed distribution of passengers accommodated in various trains was as follows: 35 in Train No. 17209, 95 in Train No. 18520, 10 in Train No. 12840, and 189 in Train No. 12718, totalling 329 passengers.

In view of the cyclone, Vijayawada Division has implemented a robust readiness plan to handle weather-related challenges. Monsoon reserves on wheels have been strategically positioned to respond quickly to any obstruction. Anemometers have been installed to record real-time wind speeds, while Water Level Monitoring Systems are actively tracking conditions at bridges and vulnerable points.

The Division has also mobilized substantial machinery and manpower to manage emergency situations. This includes 25 excavators, 24 wagons loaded with machine-stitched sandbags, and 24 wagons of boulders, all stationed at four strategic locations for immediate deployment. Additionally, 650 steel cribs have been loaded on BRNs, 450 contractual labourers kept ready for emergency restoration, and 475 trackmen deployed for monsoon patrolling and observation of vulnerable track locations.

Emergency materials such as 2800 cubic meters of sand, 2500 cubic meters of boulders, 12 steel emergency girders, and 150 Hume pipes have been stacked and kept ready at key points. 72 track machines with day and night operators are also on standby for quick movement to any affected site along with the required manpower and tools.

The Railway Protection Force (RPF) of Vijayawada Division is playing a vital role in ensuring safety and order at all stations. RPF teams are maintaining 24×7 CCTV surveillance to monitor station activities, assist passengers, and support train operations during adverse weather conditions.

The Medical and Environment & Housekeeping Management Departments also undertook extensive sanitation and public health measures. Teams worked on clearing garbage and safely disposing of waste from approach roads, drains, backyards of residential areas, railway stations, administrative buildings, schools, and health units. Disinfection of these areas was carried out using a mixture of lime and bleaching powder. Spraying of insecticides and fogging operations were undertaken for mosquito control. The teams also monitored the quality of drinking water supplied to railway stations, colonies, and administrative blocks to ensure safety and hygiene during and after the cyclone.

Demonstrating commendable community spirit, the Bharat Scouts & Guides volunteers of Vijayawada Division actively participated in post-cyclone restoration activities. Despite challenging weather conditions, they helped clear fallen trees and debris from railway station vicinity, colonies, offices, and surrounding areas, restoring normalcy and ensuring safety for residents and staff. Their teamwork and swift action reflected the core values of service, discipline, and dedication.

Speaking on the Division’s preparedness, Shri Mohit Sonakiya, Divisional Railway Manager, Vijayawada Division, said, _“Our teams have shown remarkable commitment during Cyclone Montha, working round the clock to ensure passenger safety, sanitation, and smooth operations. Every department from Commercial, Operating, Engineering to Medical and Security has contributed selflessly to protect both passengers and railway assets. The timely dissemination of information by Public Relations officer ensured minimal confusion among the public and stakeholders. The teamwork and dedication of staff and volunteers truly exemplify the spirit of Vijayawada Division.”

The Vijayawada Division remains in a state of full readiness and vigilance, ensuring safe, clean, and reliable railway operations even amidst challenging weather conditions.

SCR BZA PR No.169 Date: 29th October 2025