MP Railway Safety: 530km Fencing to Prevent Animal Accidents
West Central Railway is installing 530km of fencing in MP to prevent animal accidents and boost high-speed train punctuality.
The Bhopal Division of West Central Railway has launched a massive safety initiative to protect both passengers and wildlife in Madhya Pradesh. A major project is currently underway to install 530 kilometers of protective fencing along the railway tracks to prevent cattle and animals from straying onto the lines.
Securing the Khandwa-Bina Stretch
The extensive fencing project spans both sides of the railway stretch between Khandwa and Bina. With a total budget allocation of approximately ₹288 crore, this infrastructure development is a critical step toward modernizing safety protocols. The project is scheduled to be fully completed by March 2027.
As of November 10, 2026, the railway authorities have successfully completed 74 kilometers of the planned fencing, at a cost of roughly ₹2.88 crore. The progress is distributed across several key sections:
- 49 kilometers on the Khandwa-Itarsi section
- 4 kilometers on the Itarsi-Bhopal section
- 21 kilometers on the Bhopal-Bina section
Wildlife Overpasses for Safe Passage
Recognizing the need to balance safety with ecological conservation, the project includes specialized structures for wildlife. In the Budhni-Barkhera Ghat section, four animal overpasses have been constructed to ensure that livestock and wildlife can cross the tracks without entering the danger zone. These overpasses are strategically placed, with three located on the up line and one on the middle line.
Ensuring Punctuality for High-Speed Trains
This initiative, being implemented under the leadership of Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) Pankaj Tyagi, serves a dual purpose: safety and efficiency. According to Saurabh Kataria, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager for the Bhopal Division, the fencing will significantly reduce animal-related accidents.
By preventing animals from entering the tracks, the railway aims to eliminate the need for emergency braking by loco pilots. This is particularly vital for maintaining the punctuality and reliability of high-speed services that operate at speeds of 130 kmph and above.