Monsoon season brings both natural beauty and operational challenges to the Konkan region. Known for its rugged terrain and heavy rainfall, this stretch demands meticulous planning and continuous vigilance. Konkan Railway has activated a proactive and comprehensive action plan covering key areas such as infrastructure reinforcement, real-time monitoring, patrolling, and emergency response, all aimed at minimizing service disruptions and enhancing passenger safety.

With a consistent track record of operational excellence and continuous improvements in geo-safety, KRCL stands ready to tackle the challenges of the monsoon.

Key Preparations for Monsoon 2025

Infrastructure and Drainage Readiness

• Extensive cleaning of catchwater drains and inspection of cuttings across the route have been conducted.
• Ongoing and completed geo-safety projects have drastically reduced the instances of boulder falls and soil slippages.
• Remarkably, there have been no major disruptions from boulder falls during monsoons in the past decade, a testament to KRCL’s sustained efforts.

Monsoon Patrolling and Surveillance

• 636 trained personnel are being deployed for round-the-clock patrolling at vulnerable locations.
• Strategic placement of BRN (wagons) -mounted excavators at Chiplun, Ratnagiri, Kankavali and Verna for rapid response during emergencies.
• Rail Maintenance Vehicles (RMVs) are stationed at 9 key locations: Veer, Chiplun, Ratnagiri, Rajapur Road, Kudal, Verna, Karwar, Bhatkal, and Udupi.
• Tower Wagons are kept ready at Mangaon, Chiplun, Ratnagiri, Kankavali, Karmali, Karwar, and Udupi for immediate action.

Operational Adjustments for Safety

• Loco pilots are instructed to reduce train speed to 40 km/h during low visibility caused by heavy rainfall.
• Self-Propelled Accident Relief Medical Vans (ARMVs) with operation theatres and emergency medical aid are stationed at Ratnagiri and Verna.
• An Accident Relief Train (ART) is stationed at Verna, ready to mobilize within 15 minutes.
• In situations when water exceeds 100mm, the train services will be temporarily suspended and will be resumed only after the water level recedes to ensure passenger safety.

Upgraded Communication Systems

• Safety personnel are equipped with mobile phones for emergency communication with the control office / station.
• Loco Pilots and Guards are provided with walkie-talkies
• All stations have 25-Watt VHF sets ensuring seamless wireless coordination between train crew and station masters.
• Emergency Communication (EMC) sockets are installed every 1 km distance for immediate contact between Patrolmen, Watchmen, Loco Pilots Guard and other field maintenance staff with control offices during emergencies..
• Satellite phones in ARMVs enhances communication capabilities during disaster response.

Technology-Driven Monitoring

• Installation of LED signals for enhanced visibility during low light and foggy conditions.
• Self-recording rain gauges are active at 9 stations viz. (Mangaon, Chiplun, Ratnagiri, Vilwade, Kankavali, Madgaon, Karwar, Bhatkal and Udupi) to monitor and alert officials about rainfall levels.
• Flood warning systems are functional at key bridges  i.e Kali river (between Mangaon & Veer), Savitri river (between Veer & Sape Wamane) and  Vashishti river (between Chiplun & Kamathe) to alert officials if water levels reach dangerous levels.
• Anemometers installed on major viaducts and bridges to monitor wind speeds at locations viz  four locations Panval viaduct (between Ratnagiri & Nivasar), Mandovi bridge (between Thivim & Karmali), Zuari bridge (Karmali & Verna), and Sharavati bridge (between Honnavar & Manki) to monitor wind velocity.

Round-the-Clock Control & Medical Support

• 24/7 Control Rooms are operational in Belapur, Ratnagiri, and Madgaon throughout the monsoon.
• Medical teams are positioned at Chiplun, Ratnagiri, Verna, Madgaon, Karwar, and Udupi to handle any emergencies.

 Monsoon Timetable & Passenger Information

• The Monsoon Timetable will be in effect from 15th June to 20th October, 2025.
• Sectional speeds are adjusted to ensure safety during this period of challenging weather.
• KRCL closely coordinates with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) for daily weather updates.
• Passengers can access real-time train status via www.konkanrailway.com or the helpline number 139.

Konkan Railway remains steadfast in its commitment to safety, efficiency, and passenger convenience. Through meticulous preparation and a well-coordinated strategy, KRCL ensures that monsoon travel across the Konkan remains safe, smooth, and reliable.