South Coast Railway Begins Operations from Visakhapatnam
The newly created South Coast Railway (SCoR) Zone officially commenced operations from its headquarters in Visakhapatnam on Monday, marking a significant milestone in Andhra Pradesh’s enduring demand for a separate railway zone.
The launch of the 18th railway zone of Indian Railways positions Visakhapatnam as an important administrative and operational hub, with railway officials and public representatives hailing the development as a significant boost to the State’s infrastructure and economic growth.
SCoR General Manager Sandeep Mathur formally inaugurated operations by unveiling the new railway system map at the temporary headquarters located at The Deck in Siripuram. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Mathur said the formation of the new zone would enhance administrative efficiency, improve operational effectiveness, and strengthen both passenger and freight services.
“The creation of a new railway zone is a rare event in the history of Indian Railways. It signals a renewed commitment to infrastructure development and regional economic progress, and will serve as a catalyst for growth across Andhra Pradesh and the wider region,” he said.
Soon after the inauguration, the General Manager conducted a high-level safety review meeting with Divisional Railway Managers of Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, Guntur, and Guntakal divisions. Emphasising that safety would remain the zone’s foremost priority, he directed officials to ensure strict adherence to safety protocols, undertake regular infrastructure audits, and strengthen crew counselling measures.
Officials said the South Coast Railway will administer a network spanning about 3,532 route kilometres and 385 stations. The zone is expected to handle nearly 100 million tonnes of freight annually, supported by a workforce of more than 62,000 employees — making it one of the most significant operational zones in the country.
The commencement of operations was welcomed by political leaders, railway activists, and public organisations across the State.
Visakhapatnam MP M. Sribharat described the launch as the fulfilment of a long-pending promise to the people of Andhra Pradesh. He expressed confidence that the railway zone, along with key infrastructure projects such as the Bhogapuram International Airport, would accelerate growth in tourism, information technology, and industrial sectors.
Railway Zone Sadhana Samithi convener Chalasani Gandhi termed the development the culmination of a four-decade-long struggle. He credited civil society groups, activists, and political leaders for their sustained efforts. He added that the new zone would improve logistics efficiency through better integration with regional ports, while also creating employment opportunities.
CPI State secretariat member J.V. Satyanarayana Murthy called the inauguration a collective victory for the people of North Andhra. Recalling the prolonged movement for a separate railway zone, he said the achievement reflected the united efforts of political parties, public organisations, and citizens, and stressed the need to ensure that its benefits reach people at the grassroots level.