The Ministry of Railways has directed multiple railway zones and divisions to conduct real-time stock checks of trains to ensure smooth and punctual operations amid rising fog conditions during the winter season.
The General Managers of Northern Railway, North Eastern Railway and North Central Railway have been instructed to undertake real-time stocktaking of trains and address any operational issues, including those related to catering. Divisional Railway Managers of Delhi, Lucknow, Banaras, Prayagraj and Moradabad have also been advised to closely monitor train operations and resolve matters of concern on a real-time basis.
To ensure punctuality, spare rakes for premium trains such as Vande Bharat Express and Shatabdi Express are being made available. A 20-car Vande Bharat rake is currently being deployed to ensure on-time departures of the New Delhi–Varanasi services.
In addition, a 20-car rake available with Northern Railway as a maintenance spare is being utilised to ensure timely commencement of Vande Bharat services between Varanasi and New Delhi.
Another 20-car Vande Bharat rake, earlier earmarked for augmentation of a 16-car Vande Bharat service, is being moved from West Central Railway to Northern Railway to support on-time operations.
Meanwhile, two AC rakes are being formed using available coaches to facilitate on-time departures of late-running trains on East Central Railway and Southern Railway routes.
Arrangements for catering and onboard housekeeping services for spare rakes are being made by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC).
To further strengthen oversight, train operations are being monitored directly by the Railway Board, enabling real-time intervention through dedicated war rooms. This mechanism is aimed at ensuring accurate operational oversight and prompt resolution of catering and service-related issues. (ANI)
