Railways – South Coast Railway Completes 3,500-Km Inspection to Strengthen Safety and Infrastructure
Railways –The South Coast Railway (SCoR) has completed an extensive inspection covering nearly 3,500 kilometres across its network, with a strong focus on operational efficiency, safety standards, infrastructure upgrades, and improved passenger facilities.
General Manager Sandeep Mathur wrapped up a comprehensive field inspection across all four divisions of the newly established South Coast Railway Zone after reviewing railway operations over almost 3,500 kilometres. The inspection covered several key rail corridors and was aimed at assessing the condition of railway assets, the progress of ongoing projects, and the quality of services provided to passengers. The exercise formed part of the zone’s broader effort to strengthen operational performance while ensuring a safe and reliable travel experience.
Inspection Covers Major Rail Corridors
During the tour, Mathur visited several important railway sections, including the Ichchapuram–Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada–Gudur–Renigunta, Tirupati–Guntakal, Visakhapatnam–Rajahmundry, Nandyal–Guntur, and Guntur–Madhira routes. These inspections enabled officials to review a wide range of operational and engineering activities spread across different parts of the South Coast Railway network.
The review also included visits to 35 major railway stations, where passenger amenities, station infrastructure, and operational arrangements were examined. In addition, the progress of 23 projects being executed under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme was assessed to ensure development work is progressing according to planned timelines.
Safety and Infrastructure Receive Special Attention
Railway safety remained at the centre of the inspection programme. Mathur closely monitored the condition of railway tracks, points and crossings, signalling systems, and level crossings to verify that maintenance standards were being maintained. Preparations for the ongoing monsoon season were also reviewed to ensure the network remains resilient during adverse weather conditions.
Alongside safety measures, several capacity enhancement initiatives came under detailed examination. These included third-line construction works, yard remodelling projects, Rail Over Rail infrastructure, and station redevelopment activities. Officials also reviewed the progress of redevelopment projects at Tirupati and Kadapa railway stations, while discussing the proposed alignment for the Nambur Line as part of future expansion plans.
Focus on Pilgrim Travel Ahead of Godavari Pushkaram
A significant portion of the inspection was dedicated to preparations for the upcoming Godavari Pushkaram festival, which is expected to attract large numbers of pilgrims. Mathur evaluated readiness at key stations, including Godavari, Rajahmundry, Kovvuru, Samalkot, Tuni, and Anakapalli.
The review focused on crowd management arrangements, passenger movement, and access routes for devotees to ensure smooth operations during the religious event. Railway officials also examined coordination efforts with state authorities to improve traffic flow, station accessibility, and public safety throughout the festival period.
The extensive inspection highlighted the South Coast Railway’s continued emphasis on maintaining high safety standards while accelerating infrastructure development across the newly formed zone. By reviewing ongoing projects, passenger facilities, and operational preparedness, the railway administration aims to enhance service quality and ensure that future travel demand can be managed efficiently across its expanding network