Pre-Monsoon Preparedness: Railways installs rain gauge to monitor data, to use drones to monitor flood-prone areas

The Central Railway (CR) too has installed two, one at Lonavala and the other at Igatpuri, to monitor rainfall data without any human intervention.

Five mechanised rescue boats have been procured and placed strategically for any eventuality. (File Photo)

IN ORDER to have real-time and authentic rainfall data, Western Railway (WR) has installed 10 automatic rain gauge (ARG) in the suburban section of the city and are in the process of installing four more in association with India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The Central Railway (CR) too has installed two, one at Lonavala and the other at Igatpuri, to monitor rainfall data without any human intervention. Among other steps, the WR will also be using drones to monitor flood-prone areas such as Borivali-Virar section. The CR has also procured boats and drones ahead of monsoon.

According to officials, ARG helps with several precautionary measures in case of heavy rain and to gauge possibilities of waterlogging on tracks in advance.

“Through this system, we will be able to monitor rainfall measurement without human intervention, online and on a real-time basis as machines will transmit data directly to our control room,” said Sumit Thakur, chief public relations officer of the WR.

Several new initiatives have been put in place by the CR as part of its preparedness for monsoon this year. It has planned to provide heavy-duty pumps from June 2021 for fast drainage to ensure free flow of storm water so that train services are not disrupted.

Quick reaction team (QRT) and flood rescue team (FRT) of Railway Protection Force (RPF) have undergone training by National Disaster Response Force.

Five mechanised rescue boats have been procured and placed strategically for any eventuality. “There will also be drone monitoring by the RPF staff for timely inputs to the control office in case of calamity or heavy rain,” said Shivaji Sutar, chief public relations officer of CR.

Vallabh Ozarkar

Vallabh Ozarkar is a Senior Correspondent with The Indian Express' Mumbai bureau, recognized as an authoritative and deeply knowledgeable voice on the politics, governance, and infrastructure of Maharashtra. With approximately seven years of experience in major news organizations, his reporting delivers high standards of Expertise and Trustworthiness. Expertise & Authority Current Role: Senior Correspondent, The Indian Express, Mumbai bureau. Geographical Specialization: Provides exclusive and detailed coverage of Maharashtra politics and governance, operating at the epicenter of the state's decision-making in Mumbai. Core Authority: His reporting demonstrates deep Expertise across critical and often complex state matters, including: Political Dynamics: In-depth analysis of the ruling coalition (Mahayuti) and opposition (MVA), internal party conflicts, and crucial election updates, including local body polls and municipal corporation tussles. Governance & Policy: Focused coverage on significant state policies, such as the overhaul of Mumbai's 'pagdi system' (rent control for old buildings) and social welfare schemes (e.g., Ladki Bahin Yojana accountability). Infrastructure & Development: Reports on major urban and regional infrastructure projects, including the Mumbai Water Metro, Uttan-Virar Sea Link, and Thane Metro development. Administrative Oversight: Follows legislative actions, cabinet decisions, and reports on issues of accountability and alleged fraud within state departments. Experience Current Role: His role at The Indian Express—a leading national daily—validates the credibility and standard of his reporting. Career Foundation: Prior to The Indian Express, Vallabh contributed to other major metropolitan news outlets, including the Mumbai Mirror and DNA - Daily News & Analysis, providing a solid foundation in rigorous urban and political journalism. Evidence of Impact: His work consistently breaks down complex political developments and administrative failures, such as exposing discrepancies in government welfare schemes, cementing his reputation as a trusted source for ground-level, impactful news from Maharashtra. He tweets @Ozarkarvallabh ... Read More

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