The 132-year-old Waltair Railway division has shown marvellous growth year-on-year, breaking its own records in terms of originating loading and revenue earning, Divisional Railway Manager Manoj Kumar Sahoo said and gave full credit to the staff for their efforts in putting the division on the growth trajectory.
The DRM unfurled the National Flag and took the Rashtriya Salami, which was presented by the contingents of the Railway Protection Force, Civil Defence, and Bharat Scouts & Guides on the occasion of the 76th Republic Day celebrations held at the Waltair Railway Football Stadium here on Sunday (January 26).
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Manoj Kumar recalled the significance of the Indian Constitution, and the noble ideals of our freedom fighters. Highlighting the key achievements of the Division during last financial and current year, he said that the Division had recorded an all-time high in both loading and revenue. It achieved a loading of 76.48 million tonnes (MT) and earned a revenue of ₹10,268 crore, surpassing the previous records of 69.63 MT in loading and ₹9,304 crore in revenue.
The Division has consistently performed well and set new records, despite challenges. The major infrastructure developments include — the addition of 69 km of doubling and third line works and the conversion of the ageing mechanical lever frames to electrical interlocking systems at the Waltair Marshaling Yard. The Division has also replaced seven older Electronic Interlocking systems to strengthen the signalling network. In terms of freight traffic, the Division has hauled 1,366 long-haul freight trains, so far, as compared to last year’s total of 1,162 long hauls.
The DRM highlighted the Division’s commitment to sustainability with the generation of 1.73 million units of solar energy from rooftop solar plants, resulting in savings of ₹64.81 lakh on the electricity bill, this year. For enhancing passenger train mobility, 200 km of track has been upgraded to allow speeds of 130 km/hr, and 100 km of track has been upgraded to allow speeds of 110 km/hr.
The Waltair Divisional Cultural Association presented vibrant cultural performances and patriotic songs. The Railway Protection Force (RPF) performed thrilling and daring bike stunts.
Chief Administrative Officer (Construction) Ankush Gupta, ADRM (Infrastructure) E. Santaram, Senior Divisional Personnel Officer Jusuf Kabir Ansari were present.
President of East Coast Railway Women’s Welfare Organization (ECoRWWO) Madhusmita Sahoo, along with secretary and executive members, distributed health drinks and fruits to about 100 patients.
Published – January 26, 2025 03:39 pm IST
