The Palakkad Divisional Railway has officially unveiled its cutting-edge studio and media room at the Olavakode headquarters. This significant launch, which took place on Thursday, marks Palakkad as the pioneer division in Southern Railway to establish a comprehensive digital media communication facility.
During the inauguration, Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) Madhukar Roat emphasized that this new studio, managed by the Public Relations department, will greatly enhance the division’s public outreach efforts and foster greater transparency in its operations.
This new digital leap comes on the heels of Palakkad division being recognized as the best in Southern Railway, having secured the prestigious Vishisht Rail Seva Puraskar at the 70th Railway Week celebrations earlier this month. The division also earned accolades for the impeccably maintained West Coast Express (train number 22638) from the Mangaluru depot and for Palakkad Junction Railway Station, which was named the best-kept station.
Introducing the ‘Pragati’ Magazine
Further amplifying its communication, Mr. Roat officially launched Pragati, an innovative in-house magazine developed by the division’s Public Relations department. He proudly stated that Pragati is the first such publication within the entire Indian Railway system, designed to highlight the division’s impressive achievements, key initiatives, and the inspiring human stories from its dedicated workforce.
Addressing future developments, Mr. Roat provided an update on the crucial ₹22.22-crore pit line project in Palakkad, confirming that 80% of the work is now complete. He explained that once operational, this pit line will dramatically boost maintenance capabilities, accelerate the turnaround time for train rakes, and ultimately allow the division to roll out new train services originating from Palakkad.
In other infrastructure news, Kulukkallur and Melattur stations are undergoing extensive development to become modern crossing stations, with investments of ₹28.5 crore and ₹27.5 crore respectively. With half of this work already accomplished, these upgrades are expected to significantly reduce train delays and improve overall running times between Shoranur and Nilambur.
The event was attended by key officials, including Additional Divisional Manager K. Anil Kumar, Chief Project Manager S. Jayakrishnan, and Public Relations Officer B. Devadanam.