How is NFR Achieving Major Gains in Infrastructure Development and Rail Safety in FY 2025-26?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Guwahati, Jan 31 (NationPress) The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has achieved significant progress in railway infrastructure and safety improvements in FY 2025–26, showcasing its dedication to providing safe, dependable, and passenger-friendly rail services across the region, officials reported on Saturday.
The Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of NFR, Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, highlighted that concentrated efforts by the Engineering Department during this time led to substantial advancements in track safety, passenger facilities, and overall operational effectiveness.
Ensuring passenger safety was a primary focus, with the establishment of nine Road Over Bridges (ROBs) and the completion of eight Road Under Bridges (RUBs), surpassing the achievements of the same period last year.
Moreover, 21 manned level crossings were removed to bolster train operation safety, Sharma noted. These measures have greatly diminished accident-prone areas and reinforced the overall safety framework of the NFR network.
The CPRO also stated that the bridge infrastructure was enhanced, with 12 bridges undergoing rehabilitation through regirdering and 77 bridges being fitted with inspection pathways, which improves safety during maintenance and boosts long-term asset reliability.
There was considerable advancement in track renewal and strengthening efforts during this period. Rail renewal covering 337.4 kilometers and sleeper renewal stretching 329 kilometers were accomplished, exceeding last year's performance. Ballast renewal, totaling 7.649 lakh cubic meters, was performed to improve track stability and riding comfort.
Additionally, the removal of 16 permanent speed restrictions has led to better train mobility and punctuality throughout the network.
According to the official, enhancements in passenger amenities and station infrastructure were made through the inauguration of 13 Foot Over Bridges and three high-level platforms for public access. Platform elevation projects were finalized at seven stations, along with the construction of 18 passenger platform shelters and the extension of 10 platforms.
Under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, improvements at Haibargaon stations were finalized, marking a key advancement toward modern, passenger-centric station facilities. Enhancements in turnout renewals and track safety at critical locations were also accomplished.
In total, 197 turnout renewals were finalized, along with the installation of 180 thick web switches and 165 wieldable CMS crossings to bolster safety at points and crossings.
Moreover, the correction of 19 defective layouts and deep screening at 207 turnout locations were conducted to ensure improved reliability and performance of track components. Mechanized track maintenance achieved a remarkable milestone, with ten PQRS portals registering record monthly progress of 48.15 kilometers of CTR/TRS (P) work in December 2025, marking the highest ever for NFR.
Cumulative mechanized progress reached 251 kilometers by December 2025, reflecting a 100 percent increase compared to the same period last year, emphasizing the Railway’s focus on modern maintenance practices.
Effective asset utilization also led to better financial results, generating revenue earnings of Rs 43 crore through land utilization and licensing of shops and sidings, which indicates an increase from the previous year.
Furthermore, speed enhancement initiatives on loop lines increased speeds from 15 km/h to 30 km/h at 29 stations, contributing to smoother train operations and improved efficiency. These achievements collectively highlight NFR's ongoing commitment to infrastructure development, safety enhancement, and passenger convenience.
With a continued focus on modernization and capacity building, NFR remains dedicated to enhancing connectivity and establishing a reliable railway network in the region, Sharma stated.