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Southern Railways: Moving Towards a Thriving Future

2 Southern Railway, the beating heart of transportation in South India, is experiencing a dynamic resurgence. Not just chugging along, it’s steaming ahead with remarkable growth in both freight and passenger segments, painting a vibrant picture of its commitment to progress and service excellence. Text: B. Guganesan, Chief Public Relations Officer, Southern Railways. Passenger Boom: Southern Railway isn’t just about hauling cargo; it’s about people too. As a passenger-centric zone, it has witnessed a remarkable 12.8% increase in passenger traffic over the previous year. From April to December 2023, over 528 million passengers entrusted their journeys to the zone, generating an impressive Rs. 5254.93 crores in originating passenger revenue – a 12.1% jump compared to last year. This upswing in passenger footfall speaks volumes about the trust and reliance people place on Southern Railway for their travel needs. The zone’s unwavering focus on passenger comfort, enhanced amenities, and operational efficiency is resonating with the masses. Beyond the Numbers: These impressive figures are just the tip of the iceberg. Southern Railway’s commitment to progress extends far beyond mere statistics. The zone is actively engaged in infrastructure development, with a keen focus on modernizing stations, upgrading tracks, and adopting cutting-edge technologies. Streamlining operations to ensure punctuality and safety is another key area of focus. Additionally, passenger-centric initiatives like improved onboard facilities, convenient booking systems, and enhanced customer service are constantly being implemented. Freight Frenzy: The first nine months of the current fiscal year (2023-24) have been nothing short of phenomenal for Southern Railway’s freight operations. With a 6% surge compared to the previous year, the zone has muscled past 29.351 million tonnes of originating freight loading, translating to a robust Rs. 2651 crores in originating freight earnings. This impressive feat is fueled by a diverse set of commodities, ranging from workhorses like coal, iron and steel, and fertilizers to the ever-important iron ore, cement, and food grains. Even dynamic sectors like petroleum products and container traffic have contributed significantly to this freight frenzy, showcasing Southern Railway’s capability to cater to a wide spectrum of logistical needs. Looking Ahead: Southern Railway’s impressive performance in both freight and passenger segments is just the beginning of an exciting journey. The zone’s unwavering commitment to continuous improvement and service excellence is likely to propel it further on its growth trajectory. With dedicated efforts towards infrastructure development, operational streamlining, and customer-centric initiatives, Southern Railway is poised to play an even more pivotal role in connecting people, facilitating trade, and driving India’s economic progress. As the wheels of progress continue to turn, Southern Railway is sure to keep chugging towards a thriving future, leaving a trail of satisfied passengers and efficient logistical solutions in its wake.

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Amrit Bharat Stations: Chennai Division Upgrades Guindy, St. Thomas Mount, and More!

2 Latest update on the upgradation of railway stations in Chennai Division Text: A. Elumalai, Public Relations Officer, Chennai Division The Chennai Division of Southern Railway is upgrading 15 stations—Perambur, Tiruvallur, Arakkonam, Tiruttani, Jolarpettai, Gummidipundi, Guduvancheri, Sullurupeta, Chengalpattu, Ambattur, St. Thomas Mount, Guindy, Mambalam, Chennai Park, and Chennai Beach—as part of the Amrit Bharat Station scheme’s initial phase, with redevelopment progressing steadily. CHENNAI BEACH – CHENGALPATTU SECTION: The Chennai Beach-Chengalpattu rail section, including Chennai Beach, Chennai Park, St. Thomas Mount, Guindy, Mambalam, Guduvancheri, and Chengalpattu stations, will see upgrades to passenger amenities. The redevelopment of the following stations is underway: A. GUINDY: Improvements to façade of station on east and west sides, provision of entry arches on GST road side. Provision of a new booking office. Provision of pedestrian plaza Resurfacing of flooring of platforms Replacement of old roofing sheets by aluminium colour sheets Redevelopment of Two-wheeler parking area on main entry side Provision of three lifts for the existing FOB, including provision of SS hand railing and replacement of roofing sheets Provision of Passenger Information display system Improved Public Announcement system Provision of CCTVs Cost of works – Rs.13.50 crores B. ST. THOMAS MOUNT: Improvements to the façade of the station on east and west sides, provision of entry arches on the bus stop side. Provision of 3 new booking offices Provision of Pedestrian plaza Resurfacing of flooring of all platforms Provision of additional platform shelters and replacement of roofing sheets Redevelopment of parking area on main entry side, and CMRL side Provision of Passenger Information Display system Improved Public Announcement system Provision of CCTVs Cost of works – Rs. 14.15 Crores C. CHENNAI BEACH: Face-lifting by provision of elegant facades and pedestrian plazas at all the four entry zones of the station. Provision of ATVM at both north and south entries Resurfacing of flooring of all platforms Development of parking space Provision of lift (2 Nos) for the existing FOB Provision of Passenger Information Display system Improved Public Announcement system Provision of CCTVs D. CHENNAI PARK: Provision of new booking office Provision of new canopy at entry with waiting space near booking Office/cafeteria. Resurfacing of flooring of platforms Development of pedestrian walkway towards MRTS stations. Provision of new platform shelters and replacement of old roofing sheets by aluminium colour sheets Provision of lift and escalator for the existing FOB, including provision of SS hand railing. Provision of Passenger Information Display system Improved Public Announcement system Provision of CCTVs E. MAMBALAM: Improvements to the façade of the station on the east and west sides. Provision of new booking office on West Mambalam side and at T.Nagar side Provision of Pedestrian plaza Resurfacing of flooring of platforms Replacement of old roofing sheets by aluminium colour sheets Development of Two-wheeler parking area on west Mambalam side Provision of lift for the existing FOB, including provision of SS hand railing and replacement of roofing sheets. Provision of Passenger Information Display system Improved Public Announcement system Provision of CCTVs F. GUDUVANCHERI: Redeveloping the entrance of the station building with a larger porch. Provision of two elegant entrance arches Extension of the existing 3m FOB from station to the circulating area Resurfacing of flooring of platforms Development of parking space Development of pedestrian pathways Development of circulating areas Provision of lift and escalator for platforms along with the extended FOB Provision of Passenger Information Display system Improved Public Announcement system Provision of CCTVs G. CHENGALPATTU: Construction of a new station building Developing a new entrance and a porch Provision of new concourse, booking counters, and additional three retiring rooms. Modifying the existing station building to provide an AC Waiting hall, VIP lounge, retail, etc. Resurfacing of flooring of platforms Development of parking space Development of pedestrian pathways Development of Circulating area Provision of lift (2 Nos) and escalator for the existing FOB Provision of Passenger Information Display system Improved Public Announcement

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Guindy and St. Thomas Mount Railway Stations To Become Railway Heads

2 Text: A. Elumalai, Chief Public Relations Officer (Chennai Division), Southern Railways The Chennai Beach-Chengalpattu stretch is recognized as the most heavily trafficked segment in the Chennai Division, witnessing daily passenger volumes in the hundreds of thousands. Within this corridor, the railway stations at Guindy and St. Thomas Mount stand out due to their central positions within the city of Chennai. These stations have been selected for upgrades during the initial stage of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. The ambition is to finalize enhancements at both locations by the conclusion of the current fiscal year. A. Redevelopment of Guindy Railway Station under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme: The Guindy train station is a significant hub, recording daily patronage exceeding 60,000 individuals. It acts as a crucial access point for prestigious academic entities, including but not limited to Anna University and the Indian Institute of Technology Madras, alongside several other institutions specializing in engineering and humanities. Additionally, this station is noted for its proximity to the esteemed Guindy Race Club and the Guindy National Park. The well-known Phoenix shopping center is also situated in the vicinity of the station. Under the Amrit Bharat Station scheme of Indian Railways, Guindy station is set to transform with enhanced facilities at a cost of Rs. 13.50 Crores. The following redevelopment works have been planned and the work is in progress: B. Redevelopment of St. Thomas Mount Railway Station under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme: St. Thomas Mount Railway Station, strategically located on the Chennai Beach-Tambaram line, serves the varied transportation requirements of urban travelers effectively. It receives its title from its patron, St. Thomas, who was among the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ. Its proximity to St. Thomas Mount, a notable hillock, infuses the locale with not only spiritual resonance but also historical import. The station has become an essential hub for trade and is pivotal in providing expedited travel connections throughout the metropolitan area. St. Thomas Mount is poised to emerge as a major intermodal hub integrating suburban, Metro, MRTS, and MTC transit systems with the impending completion of the MRTS Phase-II project between Velachery and St. Thomas Mount. With daily passenger numbers exceeding 30,000, St. Thomas Mount railway station is scheduled for extensive renovations, with budget allocations amounting to Rs 14.15 crore. The following redevelopment works have been planned and work is in progress: The objective of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme is to enhance the infrastructure, surroundings, and facilities of railway stations. This initiative intends to provide a comprehensive and improved travel experience to passengers by redeveloping railway stations with amenities comparable to international standards.pen_sparktunesharemore_vert

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Indian Railways on Fast Track: Record Budget Fuels Multi-Modal Connectivity & “Vande Bharat” Upgrade

0 The new record budget allocated to Indian Railways will ensure rapid growth and innovation TEXT: INDIAN RAILWAYS MAGAZINE India’s railways are set for a major transformation, thanks to a hefty Rs. 2,52,000 crore capital expenditure allocation in the Interim Budget FY 2024-25. This historic investment reflects the government’s “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas” commitment and aims to propel the nation’s economy while enhancing passenger comfort and safety. Under the PM Gati Shakti, projects will enable multi-modal connectivity, improving logistics efficiency and reducing costs. This includes the conversion of 40,000 rail bogies to Vande Bharat standards for enhanced safety and passenger convenience. Three major economic railway corridor programs are set to roll out, focusing on Energy, Mineral, and Cement Corridors, Port Connectivity Corridors, and High Traffic Density Corridors. These initiatives, combined with dedicated freight corridors, are expected to accelerate GDP growth and reduce logistic costs. The projects have been identified under the PM Gati Shakti for enabling multi-modal connectivity. They will improve logistics efficiency and reduce costs. The Minister of Railways, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for the significant allocation. He highlighted a shift in focus over the last decade, moving from adding new trains to enhancing capacity and safety measures. Notable achievements include 26,000 km of new tracks, a Rs. 1,08,000 crore investment in Safety Systems, the Automatic Train Protection system (Kavach), and the development of popular new-generation trains. The budget emphasizes three key corridors for additional capacity: Energy, Mineral, and Cement; Port Connectivity; and ‘Amrit Chaturbhuj’ for high-density traffic routes. These corridors are set to lay around 40,000 km of new tracks, boosting capacity and reducing pollution. The Minister of Railways emphasised that the current budget places a strong emphasis on creating additional capacity through three key corridors. The first corridor focuses on Energy, Mineral, and Cement, aiming to curtail road pollution and lower logistics costs. The second corridor prioritizes port connectivity, ensuring seamless integration with ports through a multimodal approach called ‘Gati Shakti.’ The third corridor, named ‘Amrit Chaturbhuj,’ is envisioned as a railway network equivalent to the golden quadrilateral on high-density traffic routes. Collectively, these three corridors are set to lay approximately 40,000 km of new tracks, significantly boosting railway capacity and reducing pollution. The railway’s potential to save up to 90% of CO2 emissions in a cost-effective manner is expected to bring about a substantial transformation in the country’s economy, fostering efficiency, productivity, and sustainability. Regarding the second significant announcement, the Minister explained, “The success of ‘Vande Bharat’ and ‘Amrit Bharat’ trains has paved the way for the upgrade of all 40,000 conventional coaches. Efforts to enhance capacity are underway on multiple fronts.” Last year, we added 5,200 km of new tracks, equivalent to Switzerland’s entire rail network. This year, the plan is to add 5,500 km, a significant increase from 4 km per day in 2014 to around 15 km per day now. The budget for FY 2024-25 allocates Rs. 2,52,000 crore for capital expenditure (CAPEX). Notably, by the end of January 2024, we’ve achieved 82% of the CAPEX budget for the current year. The clear focus is on expanding capacity, improving the passenger experience, and enhancing infrastructure. The Hon’ble Prime Minister’s emphasis on railways is evident, and completion of the three corridors is expected to address the waiting list problem effectively. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has praised the Interim Budget as inclusive and innovative, expressing confidence in continuity and its ability to empower all four pillars of ‘Viksit Bharat’ – youth, poor, women, and farmers. The Prime Minister highlighted the announcement in the budget to manufacture 40,000 modern ‘Vande Bharat Standard’ coaches, emphasizing that their induction into regular passenger trains will significantly enhance the travel experience for millions of passengers on various railway routes across the country. As part of the strategy for ‘Amrit Kaal’, these three major economic railway corridor programmes have been identified under the PM Gati Shakti for enabling multi-modal connectivity. They will improve logistics efficiency and reduce costs. The resultant decongestion of the high traffic corridors will also help in improving operations of passenger trains, resulting in safety and higher travel speed for passengers. Together with dedicated freight corridors, these three economic corridor programmes will accelerate GDP growth and reduce logistic costs.pen_sparktunesharemore_vert

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#18 Railways & The Freedom Movement: Transportation of People & Ideas (Indian Railways Series)

0 Photo: MyNation Railways and India’s Freedom Struggle, Connecting People and Ideas The railways played a huge role in India’s freedom struggle against British rule. Trains connected different parts of the country and allowed ideas, people, and resources to flow in new ways. This improved communication and helped the independence movement grow strong. Here are some key ways the railways impacted India’s fight for freedom: Opening Up India Before trains, most Indians did not travel very far. The railways changed this by connecting distant parts of the country. For the first time, people could easily go long distances to work, visit relatives, or go on pilgrimage. This helped create a sense of national unity.  It is so fascinating to know that by 1900, the British had built over 36,000 km of railway lines connecting major cities and towns across India. Spreading Ideas The railways enabled leaders and activists to take their messages to wider audiences across India. For example, Mahatma Gandhi traveled by train during the non-cooperation and civil disobedience movements to give inspiring speeches. Books, newspapers, and pamphlets also circulated more freely on the trains, spreading nationalist ideas. You’ll be shocked to know trains were so important for spreading information that the British put restrictions on “seditious material” being transported. Connecting with the Masses The railways brought many ordinary Indians into the freedom struggle. When Mahatma Gandhi called for nationwide hartals (strikes) or boycotts, people could now travel by train to participate. Movements like Khilafat, Non-Cooperation, and Quit India gained strength from the ability to mobilize masses of people.  Not only that, militant nationalists also used trains to carry out acts of resistance and violence against the British. For example, revolutionaries bombed trains and railway stations as a strategy to weaken British rule.  Fueling Economic Growth The railways stimulated business and trade across British India. Goods like cotton, jute, coal and manganese could be transported in bulk over large distances. This boosted the economy but also enriched colonial coffers. Nationalists thus saw the railways as a resource to be harnessed for swaraj (self-rule).  The Railways Became a Symbol  For many, the railways represented the might of the British empire. By the early 1900s, British officials were proud of the extensive railway network they had built across India.  However, Indians increasingly saw it as a national asset that belonged to the people. As the freedom movement grew, nationalists called for the railways to be transferred to Indian control. The railways had become a symbol of the nation they wished to liberate! The railways transformed India in the colonial era. They opened up the country, connected people, spread ideas, aided resistance, and fueled economic change. While enabling British control, the railways also became tools for national awakening and liberation. They remain an enduring legacy of India’s freedom struggle. Source- 

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Train Travel Goes Seamless: IRCTC and Ola Join Forces for Easy Cab Booking

0 In a move aimed at making train travel more convenient, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has partnered with ride-hailing platform Ola. This collaboration enables passengers to seamlessly book cabs directly from the IRCTC Rail Connect app and website, eliminating the hassle of finding transportation upon arrival at their destination. This initiative, initially launched as a six-month pilot project, offers passengers a one-stop platform for managing their entire travel journey. From booking train tickets and ordering meals to securing reliable cab transport, the IRCTC app now caters to passengers’ needs throughout their trip. The integration provides access to Ola’s extensive network of cabs, ranging from budget-friendly hatchbacks to premium sedans. Passengers can choose their preferred vehicle type and book rides in advance, ensuring a smooth transition from train to their final destination. Additionally, the partnership promises competitive fares and transparent pricing, further enhancing the travel experience. Commenting on the collaboration, an IRCTC spokesperson stated, “We are excited to partner with Ola to offer our passengers a comprehensive travel solution. This integration will significantly improve first-mile and last-mile connectivity, making train travel even more convenient and enjoyable.” Ola representatives echoed the sentiment, highlighting their commitment to providing seamless transportation options. “We are delighted to collaborate with IRCTC and contribute to a smoother travel experience for millions of train passengers. This partnership leverages our robust network and technology to offer passengers reliable and affordable cab services right at their fingertips.” The IRCTC-Ola partnership has been met with positive reactions from passengers, who appreciate the added convenience and efficiency it brings. By streamlining the post-train travel experience, this collaboration has the potential to significantly boost ridership and enhance the overall image of Indian Railways. With its focus on improving passenger comfort and accessibility, the IRCTC-Ola partnership marks a significant step forward in the modernization of India’s railway network. This collaboration sets a promising precedent for future initiatives aimed at making train travel not just efficient, but also a truly enjoyable experience for everyone.

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