Automatic weather stations are being installed at vulnerable points across the Northeast Frontier Railway network. The work is meant to support safer train operations and stronger monsoon disaster preparedness. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

NFR adds automatic weather stations on risky routes
NFR adds automatic weather stations on risky routes

According to an NFR statement, the system is intended to deliver accurate, real-time weather information. It can help railway authorities take preventive action during floods and landslides. Also, it can help during other adverse weather conditions.

Three automatic weather stations have already been installed successfully. Meanwhile, another six are at different stages of installation. The railway said those sites were identified as vulnerable locations within the NFR jurisdiction.

The locations include the Lumding-Badarpur section in Assam. They also include the Katakhal-Sairang section connecting Mizoram and the Jiribam-Khongsang route in Manipur. Together, these sections define the current rollout area described by NFR for the AWS network.

Automatic weather stations for vulnerable sections

NFR said these stretches are prone to heavy rain, flooding and landslides during the monsoon season. NFR said continuous weather monitoring is essential for safe train operations in these areas.

The remaining six are expected to be completed by the end of May, the statement said.

The installation work is being carried out in close coordination with the India Meteorological Department. Also, the AWS network will generate precise, location-specific weather data. That data can help railway officials make timely, informed decisions during emergencies and adverse weather.

In addition, the initiative is expected to significantly improve preparedness and response mechanisms. That applies especially to sections exposed to flooding and landslides.

Sensors to support real-time weather forecasting

As ETInfra reported, the stations include advanced sensors. These sensors can monitor several weather parameters with high accuracy. For example, rain gauge sensors can record precipitation intensity up to 900 mm per hour. Other sensors can measure temperatures from minus 40 degree Celsius to plus 75 degree Celsius.

Also, wind sensors can record speeds of up to 80 metres per second. Humidity sensors cover a range from 0 to 100 per cent. Separately, pressure-measuring devices can measure atmospheric pressure up to 1200 hPa.

“The deployment of these advanced weather monitoring systems reflects NFR’s continued commitment towards enhancing operational safety, adopting modern technology and ensuring uninterrupted rail connectivity in challenging geographical regions during the monsoon season,” the statement added.

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