We are fully prepared for monsoon operations, says South Western Railway

Keeping passenger safety and uninterrupted train operations as its top priority, comprehensive monsoon preparedness measures have been taken across the network under the railway zone to effectively address seasonal challenges, South Western Railway has said in a release.

Under South Western Railway, the monsoon period for 2026 is observed from June 1 to October 31, while for select sections of Bengaluru and Mysuru divisions, the notified period extends from mid-August/early September to mid-November based on local weather conditions.

During this time, extensive precautionary protocols are in place to ensure safe and reliable train operations, the release said.

Based on the past flood history, Water Level Monitoring Instruments (WLMIs) have been installed at 15 critical bridge locations to strengthen bridge safety.

These systems provide real-time water level data and generate automated daily SMS alerts to officials, enabling timely preventive action.

Having identified a total of 48 road underbridges prone to water logging, measures such as desilting, installation of flood gauge indicators, warning signage and round-the-clock monitoring have been implemented.

Select road underbridges are also equipped with CCTV surveillance on a trial basis, while real-time monitoring is carried out through the Bridge Management System (BMS).

To monitor high wind conditions, an anemometer has been installed near Sagarakatte on the Mysuru-Arasikere section for continuous wind velocity assessment.

South Western Railway has also established a robust communication system to respond to adverse weather, the release said.

For emergency preparedness, monsoon reserve material such as boulders and sandbags are strategically positioned at seven key locations across Hubballi and Mysuru divisions.

Machinery, including excavators and compressors, are also kept ready at critical points for swift restoration works, the release said.

Monsoon patrolling has also been intensified with watchmen deployed at vulnerable locations. Joint inspections of nearby water bodies have been conducted with local authorities to mitigate risks from potential breaches or sudden water releases.

To ensure rapid response in case of emergencies, fully equipped Auxiliary Medical Relief Trains and Self-Propelled Accident Relief Trains are stationed strategically across all divisions, the release said.