Waltair Division organises safety seminar for track staff at Kottavalasa

The Engineering Department of Waltair Division conducted a seminar on track working procedures and safety precautions for Push Trolleys, Motor Trolleys, and related equipment at Kottavalasa on Thursday. The programme brought together track maintainers, trolley operators, key-men, and supervisory staff for an in-depth session on operational rules, best practices, and safety protocols.

Divisional Railway Manager Lalit Bohra, the chief guest, underlined the critical importance of adhering to safety regulations. “Staff must thoroughly understand all safety rules before performing any track work or operating trolleys. Inspecting equipment before use is not optional—it is essential,” he said. He further highlighted the significance of block protection, safeguarding the track, and using safety gadgets, particularly at vulnerable locations, urging everyone to remain vigilant at all times.

The seminar was organised by B. Naveen Raju, Senior Divisional Engineer (South), along with SMK Pattnaik, ADEN (Track), and P-Way Inspectors, who shared practical insights on safe operational procedures. Naveen Raju provided detailed guidelines on how track maintenance should be carried out and outlined best practices for operating Push and Motor Trolleys, including step-by-step instructions for inspection, handling, and emergency response.

During the programme, DRM Bohra interacted with track maintainers to understand their experiences, concerns, and suggestions. Staff members shared field challenges and operational hurdles, which Bohra acknowledged, reinforcing a culture of safety and open communication. “Safety is not just a protocol—it is a shared responsibility. Understanding ground realities helps us strengthen preventive measures,” he said.

Safety seminars like this are part of ongoing efforts by Waltair Division to raise awareness about correct working procedures and ensure strict adherence to protocols in both daily operations and emergency situations.

The division has also emphasised periodic training sessions, on-site demonstrations, and continuous monitoring of track operations to minimise accidents and enhance staff preparedness.