All level crossings will be manned by March: GM

Speaking to the reporters after inspecting the ongoing development works, the GM said that steps have been initiated to turn as many as 148 level crossings into manned ones. So far, 60 have been converted into manned level crossings and the remaining would become manned by March 2020. With this all level crossing will become manned in Southern Railway’s jurisdiction, the general manager added.

Informing that the double line for a distance of 43 km in Madurai region would be increased to 74 km by next year, he said that similarly, electrification works for a distance of 114 km between Tiruchy and Thanjavur has been initiated.

Regarding measures initiated to ensure safety of passengers, the GM conveyed that fatal accidents have been reduced with the help of the prevention activities carried out across the Southern Railway.

Speaking about other facilities John Thomas said that the Vriddhachalam-Salem passenger train would be operated from Ariyalur after ascertaining the views of all the sections. Similarly, all the special trains operated for various festivals would be provided with a halt at Ariyalur, he said.

Later, John Thomas inaugurated the office of the Railway Station Manager and the VIP quarters in the Ariyalur station premises.

He also planted saplings as part of the railways’ green drive and received petitions from thecommuters.