Western Railway Chief Conducts Detailed Inspection of Gujarat's Pioneering Green Station
In a significant development for railway infrastructure in Gujarat, Western Railway (WR) General Manager Pradeep Kumar undertook an extensive inspection visit to Ekta Nagar railway station in Narmada district on Saturday. This station holds the distinguished title of being Gujarat's first officially designated 'green railway station,' setting a benchmark for sustainable and modern rail facilities in the region.
Comprehensive Review of Eco-Friendly Amenities and Passenger Services
During his thorough on-site assessment, General Manager Kumar meticulously evaluated multiple critical aspects of station operations. His inspection focused sharply on the standards of cleanliness maintained, the quality and availability of passenger amenities, and the implementation of various eco-friendly technologies. Officials provided detailed briefings on the comprehensive sustainability initiatives that have been successfully deployed at Ekta Nagar, which is widely regarded as one of the most advanced and contemporary stations within the state.
Major Infrastructure Upgrades and Safety Enhancements Announced
Vadodara Divisional Railway Manager Raju Bhadke, who accompanied the GM, disclosed several important infrastructure proposals and ongoing projects. A key proposal currently under active consideration involves the construction of an additional loop line at Ekta Nagar station. This strategic addition is specifically designed to significantly enhance the station's train-handling capacity, thereby improving operational efficiency and reducing potential delays.
In a major safety-focused initiative, Bhadke confirmed that work is already in progress to install robust metal crash barriers along the critical Dabhoi–Ekta Nagar railway section. This crucial measure aims to effectively prevent cattle run-over incidents, which are a persistent safety concern. The implementation of these barriers is expected to deliver a dual benefit: substantially improving safety for both railway operations and local livestock, while also contributing to better overall train punctuality on this route.
Progress on Station Redevelopment and Category Upgrades
The railway officials also provided updates on the broader redevelopment efforts within the division. The comprehensive redevelopment of Godhra railway station, executed under the central government's ambitious Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, has been successfully completed and is slated for formal inauguration in the near future. Simultaneously, redevelopment work at both Pratapnagar and Dabhoi stations is advancing steadily according to schedule.
Notably, the construction of modern 12-metre-wide foot overbridges at Pratapnagar and Dabhoi stations is approaching its final stages of completion. In another operational improvement, Kundela and Tilakwada stations on this section have been officially upgraded to 'B' category status. This administrative enhancement is strategically intended to boost operational efficiency and service delivery at these locations.
Window Trailing Inspection and Strategic Directives
Following the station inspection, General Manager Pradeep Kumar conducted a detailed window trailing inspection along the Ekta Nagar–Pratapnagar section. This hands-on review allowed him to personally assess track safety conditions and observe operational practices firsthand.
Concluding his visit, Kumar held an interactive session with officers at the Vadodara divisional railway office. During this meeting, he emphatically stressed the paramount importance of prioritizing safety across all railway activities, with particular attention required during non-interlocking works. The General Manager issued a clear directive for focused and concerted efforts on two key fronts: continuous capacity enhancement of railway infrastructure and proactive business development initiatives to drive growth and efficiency within the division.
