Mumbai: In a bid to ensure local train services are not disrupted during monsoons, the Railways have decided to conduct a drone survey on its Central and Harbour lines. The railway authorities have accordingly urged the Mumbai Police to permit them to use drone services, use of which is banned in the city. This comes after the suburban services were completely out of gear on July 2 due to heavy downpour leading to waterlogging on railway tracks. A CR official said overflowing Mithi river on the railway tracks had brought the suburban rail services to a halt due to which they planned to put a fleet of drones into action.
“We have received permission from the Mumbai Police and will start the survey with immediate effect so that same thing does not repeat in coming days as the monsoon is just started,” said an CR official. Senior official said the drones will be flown over Mithi river to assess the situation and prevent a recurrence. The original plan was to use them from Thursday, but due to the rains it could not be done. “Until July 31 we will conduct the survey with specific time period given to us. As per the circular the drones will be used from CSMT to Mankhurd and CSMT to Mulund beyond that CR will not use it,” he said.
CR have to follow all the rules and regulations will using the drone as they cannot enter in other areas beyond the stations area they have mentioned. They also have to take permission from the area police station while using the drone services. “We will have to take all permission so that there is no violation rules. We will be using drone services at the height of 100 meters for which we will be taking permission from local police,” added offcial,
A total of 60 trains were affected due to water logging on the tracks. However, after intense repair and restoration work, the services resumed on July 4. “For damages and restoration work the Mumbai division had to change electro-pneumatic brake units of 45 12-car trains, grease axle boxes of 19 local trains and re-seal traction motors of 32 trains. He further said that staff and officials worked round the clock and ensured that all of it was done in record time,” said offcial.
