New Delhi, EW News:  The Northern Railway commemorated its 68th Railway Week with a grand Awards Distribution Ceremony held at the National Rail Museum in Chanakyapuri, New Delhi. Shri Shobhan Chaudhuri, the General Manager of Northern Railway, presided over the event, which witnessed the felicitation of 100 railway employees for their outstanding services.

During the ceremony, Chaudhuri presented 54 running shields based on performance-oriented parameters. Ambala Division was honored with the General Manager’s Excellence Shield, while Delhi Division received recognition for the Best Overall Performance in all fields. Firozpur Division was commended for its Most Economical Functioning, and Moradabad Division received the award for the Best Improved Division.

Addressing the gathering, Chaudhuri applauded the remarkable achievements of the Northern Railway zone in core functional areas. He highlighted the zone's unprecedented growth in infrastructure and services, citing significant milestones such as the dedication of the first phase of the renovated Ayodhya Dham Railway station by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

Chaudhuri underscored the collective efforts of railway personnel, emphasizing Northern Railway's notable accomplishments. The zone reported an impressive revenue of Rs. 7869 crores from 35-million-ton Cargo Loading and Rs. 349 crores from parcel & goods loading, securing the top position among all Zonal Railways. Noteworthy initiatives included the operation of 266 special trains during Deepawali and Chhath Puja festivals, the launch of the "One Station, One Product" scheme at 126 stations, and the electrification of 95% of the route.

Moreover, significant strides were made in enhancing efficiency and sustainability, with the conversion of 19 pairs of coaching trains from diesel to electric traction, resulting in a recurring annual saving of Rs. 23 crores in high-speed diesel. Work is also underway to increase train speeds up to 160 KMPH on key routes and the completion of three Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals.

Chaudhuri expressed pride in Northern Railway's sportsmen and sportswomen, who have brought honor to the country through their exemplary performances. He also commended the Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel for their unwavering dedication to duty in safeguarding railway property and assisting the public in times of need.

Chaudhuri congratulated all the awardees and their families for their invaluable contributions and sacrifices, acknowledging the pivotal role played by railway families in supporting their spouses in fulfilling their duties. The ceremony concluded on a note of celebration and appreciation for the collective efforts driving Northern Railway's success.