Giddi-A Railway Siding Construction Resumes, Management Plans Dust-Control Measures

Construction work on the long-pending Giddi-A railway siding has resumed, with the contractor beginning work on the project aimed at improving coal dispatch from the Argadda area.

The project has been entrusted to contractor Sanjay Upadhyay under a tender issued by the Indian Port and Railway Corporation Limited. Work on the siding has now restarted after remaining non-operational for nearly eight years.

The proposed siding is also expected to receive modern infrastructure. As part of the plan, the existing five railway tracks will be reduced to two tracks, while the length of the wagon loading yard is proposed to be increased to facilitate more efficient loading operations.

Since the available yard length is considered insufficient, a portion of the boundary wall of the closed Giddi Washery on one side is proposed to be removed and the additional space used for the construction work.

The project will include construction of a new railway line, renovation of existing tracks, a weighbridge, approach roads and other associated infrastructure. The upgraded facility is expected to streamline coal loading and transportation from the surrounding mining projects.

Dust-control measures proposed

The issue of coal dust during loading and transportation has also been taken into consideration. CCL management has proposed measures to reduce dust pollution around the siding, including the installation of wind-breaking screens and a sprinkler system.

The proposal for these measures has been sent to the CCL headquarters in Ranchi. Once implemented, the systems are expected to help reduce the spread of coal dust during loading and dispatch operations.

At present, coal produced by various mines in the Argadda area is transported by road to the Saunda railway siding for dispatch. This involves additional transportation costs, time and logistical difficulties.

Once the Giddi-A railway siding becomes operational, coal from Giddi-A, Giddi-C, Religarha and Sirka projects is expected to be dispatched directly through railway rakes.

The revival of the siding could therefore reduce dependence on road transportation, lower logistics costs and make coal dispatch from the Argadda area more efficient.