Large-Scale Mock Disaster Response Drill Conducted at Gopinathpur Nilgiri Yard

By a Staff Reporter: In a major step towards enhancing emergency preparedness in the railway sector, a large-scale Mock Disaster Management Exercise was conducted today at Gopinathpur Nilgiri Station Yard under the Kharagpur Division of South Eastern Railway. The drill was jointly organized with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) based in Mundali, Cuttack, alongside state agencies including Fire Services, Police, Civil Defence, Scouts & Guides, Medical units and St. John Ambulance.

The exercise simulated a train derailment to mirror real-time crisis situations. Soon after the mock accident, crucial rescue and relief units such as Accident Relief Train (ART), Accident Relief Medical Equipment (ARME) and a crane were mobilized from Kharagpur. Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) Shri Lalit Mohan Pandey, along with senior officials, rushed to the spot to supervise the operation.

Rescue teams from NDRF and the Railways conducted coordinated evacuation and first-aid procedures with remarkable precision. Medical personnel ensured structured documentation of passengers and facilitated immediate evacuation of injured individuals. To assist affected passengers and families, various service counters—including Enquiry/Helpdesk, First Aid and Ex-Gratia booths—were set up at the accident site. Helpdesks were also activated at major stations across the division for wider support.

More than 250 trained personnel from multiple departments showcased outstanding synergy, reflecting high preparedness levels for disaster handling. The exercise highlighted the efficiency and readiness of the Kharagpur Division in addressing large-scale emergencies.

South Eastern Railway reaffirmed that continuous drills of this nature form a crucial part of its commitment to ensuring swift, well-coordinated and effective responses during real-life railway disasters.