South Central Railway celebrated the 72nd Republic Day with vivacity and patriotic fervour at Railway Sports Complex Grounds, Secunderabad today i.e., 26th January, 2021. Shri Gajanan Mallya, General Manager, South Central Railway, who was the Chief Guest on the occasion, unfurled the National Flag and received the Guard of Honour presented by various contingents of Railway Protection Force.
Delivering his address on the occasion, Shri Gajanan Mallya stated that the Republic Day offers South Central Railway an opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to serve the Nation as a core transport service provider. Elaborating on the priorities of the Zone, Shri Gajanan Mallya said that the Zone was able to overcome the huge challenges posed by Covid-19. The Zone succeeded in contributing to the Nation’s cause during the tough times by effectively pooling all its resources and meticulously deploying its efforts across the spectrum. During the initial testing times, the zone took the initiative of running of the first Shramik Special on 1st May 2020, which was subsequently emulated across the Indian Railways. He further informed that even with the prevailing pandemic situation, execution of the infrastructure projects by the zone is on fast pace resulting in commissioning of 44 Kms of New Railway Line, 44 Kms of Gauge conversion works. In addition, 127 Kms of Doubling and 22 Kms of Tripling works have been completed and commissioned during this financial year; The GM informed.
Taking forward the major initiative of the Hon’ble prime Minister of India to support the farm community, the zone has started Kisan specials meant for transporting agricultural products across various destinations. A major thrust has been given for freight transportation. Multi-disciplinary Business Development Units have been set-up across the Divisions and Zone, which has resulted in making the freight basket of the zone more diversified and sustainable over the long-term.
The Zone has always believed in growth along the environment-friendly path. Accordingly, 6 pairs of trains have been converted into HOG technology which while saving Rs. 33 Crore per annum in fuel bill will also be environment-friendly. Also, in recognition of the Energy Conservation measures being practiced at work places and Stations of the Zone, SCR has received 3 National Energy conservation awards and 3 Telangana State Energy conservation awards for the year 2020 and 59 stations have been conferred with ISO 14001 Certifications.
The General Manager stated that the well-being of the staff is of prime importance to the Zone. Towards this end, COVID-Care Centers have been set-up at 5 Railways Units across the Zone for the benefit of all team members. The General Manager announced that SCR has started administering Covid vaccination to its frontline staff in the first round of vaccination drive across the country.
Shri Gajanan Mallya called upon the entire SCR workforce to perform to their best and work with heightened dedication and commitment drawing inspiration from the spirit of Republic Day celebrations, so as to play their role in the Nation’s journey of progress.
A host of cultural events signifying patriotism, showcasing skills of Dog Squad of Railway Protection Force etc., marked the culmination of the program.
Later, Smt. Jayanthi Mallya, President South Central Railway Women’s Welfare Organization (SCRWWO) felicitated Thirty Two frontline medical staff viz Doctors and paramedical staff of Central Hospital, Lallaguda who rendered their yeomen service during pandemic times. Shri Gajanan Mallya, General Manager, SCR and Shri Prasanna Kumar, Principal Chief Medical Director were also present.
(General Manager’s full speech in English, Telugu, Hindi is attached separately for reference)
