Khurda Road Division raises concern over rising level crossing gate violations

Bhubaneswar, Oct 9 (UNI) The Khurda Road Division of East Coast Railway has expressed serious concern over the increasing incidents of Level Crossing (LC) gate violations and damage caused by road vehicles, which are disrupting train operations and causing delays across the division.

Officials said road users frequently attempt to cross level crossings even after the gates are closed or while they are being lowered, leading to damage to boom barriers, signal failures, and serious safety risks. Such reckless behaviour, they warned, endangers lives and property while affecting train punctuality and smooth operations.

During 2024, the division recorded 113 cases of LC gate breaking, resulting in the arrest of 92 persons. Up to October 8, 2024, 88 incidents were reported with 72 arrests, while in 2025 (up to October 8), 64 cases have already been registered and 47 offenders arrested.
This year, LC gate-breaking incidents were reported from 11 cases in Bhubaneswar, 8 in Brahmapur, 7 each in Puri, Bhadrak, and Jajpur Keonjhar Road, 6 in Cuttack, and 5 each in Palasa and Khurda Road areas.
Despite repeated awareness drives by the Khurda Road Division’s Safety Department and the Railway Protection Force (RPF), and continuous counselling of road users, such violations persist, East Coast Railway (ECoR) sources said.
The railway administration has once again urged the public to cooperate and stay alert while approaching level crossings. It emphasised that public support is vital for ensuring safe and smooth movement of both trains and road traffic.

The ECoR cautioned that any attempt to cross a closed LC gate is an “invitation to disaster,” stressing that such reckless actions not only endanger lives but also damage railway property, delay train operations, and disrupt passenger and freight services.

Strict action is being taken against offenders under the provisions of the Railways Act, with the RPF and local administration working together to prevent violations and maintain uninterrupted train operations.
East Coast Railway appealed to all citizens to follow safety rules at level crossings and contribute to maintaining safe, punctual, and efficient train services.