The Indian Railways’ initiative to construct boundary walls along tracks, originally intended to prevent cattle hits and human run-overs, is now taking on a broader security dimension in light of concerns about mysterious derailments
In the Central Railway’s Nagpur division, a plan to construct approximately 1,200 kilometres of boundary walls at an estimated cost of Rs1,141 crore has been proposed. This initiative aims to strengthen security, reduce accidents, and improve operational efficiency by minimising delays and safety slowdowns.
The boundary wall project, announced in 2022 by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, is also expected to mitigate wildlife accidents in areas where railway tracks intersect forested regions. In addition to preventing human run-overs, officials believe the walls will help curb suicides by restricting access to the tracks.
“The boundary walls will protect the tracks from unwarranted intrusions, which lead to accidents, damage railway property, and disrupt schedules,” an official explained. “These disturbances result in delays and inconvenience for passengers.”
Progress has been made in some stretches of the Nagpur division. Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Aman Mittal highlighted that the 22-kilometre boundary wall between Itarsi and Amla has been completed, as has the 38-kilometre stretch between Sewagram and Narkhed, costing Rs30 crore. The section between Kala Patthar, Pola Patthar, and Magardoh on the Nagpur-Bhopal route is also finished.
“In certain sections, the tendering process is ongoing, while in others, construction is nearing completion,” Mittal said. He added that the boundary walls are not only enhancing safety but also enabling higher train speeds, which will contribute to more efficient railway operations.
This initiative underscores the railways’ commitment to addressing safety, environmental, and security challenges while improving passenger convenience and operational reliability.
