Northern Railway Launches Scratch Rake to Minimize Winter Delays

The Northern Railway’s Jammu Division has implemented a new strategy to address fog-related train delays during the winter months. On December 23, 2023, officials announced the introduction of a “scratch rake,” aimed at enhancing the punctuality of train operations and ensuring passenger convenience.

According to Vivek Kumar, the Divisional Railway Manager, the scratch rake will serve as an additional train rake for Train No. 12414 (Jammu Tawi to Ajmer) and Train No. 22478/22477 (Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra to New Delhi and back). This initiative is designed to mitigate delays caused by dense fog, which has been a persistent issue in the region.

The scratch rake will specifically help trains that face delays of seven hours or more. By utilizing these additional rakes, the Northern Railway aims to maintain the punctuality of affected services. This proactive measure reflects the railway’s commitment to improving operational efficiency and prioritizing passenger needs during challenging weather conditions.

Enhancing Passenger Experience

Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Uchit Singhal emphasized that the main goal of the scratch rake initiative is to provide passengers with a reliable and comfortable travel experience, especially during foggy weather. “Trains often get delayed due to fog. The operation of these scratch rakes will be beneficial for passengers and will help in the timely operation of trains,” he explained.

Singhal noted that these additional rakes will also address the increasing demand for train services in the Jammu division. He highlighted that the successful implementation of this solution exemplifies the efficient management of the railway system and its responsiveness to passenger requirements.

As winter progresses, the Northern Railway remains focused on minimizing disruptions and enhancing the travel experience for its customers. The introduction of the scratch rake is a significant step in achieving these objectives, ensuring that passengers can reach their destinations on time despite challenging weather conditions.