Newssuper KOLKATA, February 23, 2026:
In a sweeping infrastructure overhauling exercise aimed at bolstering passenger safety and operational efficiency, the Eastern Railway successfully executed three massive ‘Mega Blocks’ at Sealdah Division over the past month. These integrated traffic and power blocks allowed for a concentrated surge of Engineering and Traction Rolling Stock Distribution works, many performed in ‘shadow blocks’—a strategic scheduling technique to maximize output while minimizing train detention.
The works, spanning critical corridors including Sealdah-Ballygunge, Barasat-Bangaon, and Krishnanagar-Lalgola, represent a significant stride in the zone’s commitment to modernizing aging assets and ensuring a smoother ride for the thousands who traverse these lines daily.
*Surgical Precision at Sealdah-Ballygunge*
On the intervening night of 21/22 January 2026, the Sealdah–Ballygunge section witnessed the complex dismantling of a Foot Over Bridge at Park Circus. Simultaneously, engineers undertook the precision conversion of a Double Slip Diamond Point (No. 136B/137A) from 52 kg to 60 kg at the Ballygunge station limit, a vital upgrade for handling heavier axle loads and increasing sectional speed.
Further, a Ballast Cleaning Machine was deployed on the Down Line—the first deep screening in this specific stretch since 2010—covering 220 Track Meters, while Duo Track Tamping Machine progress reached 440 Track Meters. On the electrical front, Traction Rolling Stock Distribution teams replaced 700 meters of catenary wire and modernized Auto Tensioning Device feeder tails to conventional Overhead Equipment standards.
*Augmenting the Border Connectivity*
The Barasat–Bangaon section witnessed the successful insertion of a Limited Height Subway (LHS) box at Thakurnagar during the block of 21/22 February 2026, aimed at eliminating an unauthorised trespassing location and enhancing passenger safety. The newly provided subway will ensure safe and seamless public movement across the railway track.
Associated works were executed in parallel to maximise the block efficiency. These included the replacement of five Glued Joints within Bangaon station limits and the execution of 10 Alumino-Thermic welds between Bangaon and Chandpara, ensuring improved rail continuity and riding quality.
Electrical maintenance activities were also fast-tracked, comprising the Periodic Overhauling (POH) of Auto Tensioning Devices and the replacement of eight 9-ton insulators, strengthening the reliability of the OHE infrastructure.
*Massive Overhaul on the Lalgola Frontier*
Perhaps the most intensive of the three, the block on 22 February 2026 between Debagram and Pagla Chandi involved the insertion of a Limited Height Subway box at Level Crossing No. 92/E. The sheer scale of the “shadow” works here was noteworthy:
• *Track Renewal*: 1.02 Track Kilometers of Complete Track Renewal (Primary) were achieved using specialized Sleeper Quick Replacement System and Plasser’s Quick Relaying System (PQRS) machines.
• *Modern Points*: A full-set point conversion (52 kg to 60 kg) was completed at Rejinagar station.
• *Advanced Technology*: Three Thick Web Switch Expansion Joints were laid at Bethuadahari, Plassey, and Rejinagar to accommodate thermal expansion of rails with greater stability.
These blocks are essential ‘surgeries’ for the railway’s health. By executing them in a coordinated manner, Eastern Railway ensure that the infrastructure remains robust for years to come, directly contributing to a jerk-free and safe journey for daily commuters.
