Telangana activists, SCR set for showdown

HYDERABAD: The South Central Railway (SCR) and the T protagonists were all set for a showdown during the rail roko on October 12, 13 and 14. While the SCR is making preparations to run long-distance trains during the three-day rail roko programme with the support of police, who promised threetier bandobust, the T activists were determined to go ahead with the protest programme under any circumstances.Unlike the earlier rail roko on September 24 and 25, the SCR officials told Express that there would not be a complete blackout of the services.Only certain trains originating within Telangana region may be restricted but the officials made it clear that majority of long-distance trains would certainly run to minimise inconvenience to the passengers.Pilot trains will also be pressed into service. However, the officials were doubtful about running of MMTS trains in the city.The SCR has assured the state government to run the trains on October 12, 13 and 14 if adequate security is provided. They said that if train services were not allowed, it would severe links between southern and northern states for three days and disrupt coal supply to thermal power stations in almost all southern states.A series of high-level meetings were held between SCR and senior police officials.The police would provide stationery pickets, patrolling parties and reserve parties of policemen to protect trains, passengers and other railway assets. The railways were also working out a scheme for diversion of trains and early termination depending on the situation to minimise inconvenience to passengers.Control rooms manned by senior railway officials would be set up at the offices of Divisional Railway Managers (DRM) of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. Senior police officials would be present at these control rooms for exchange of information before initiating action, they added.On the other hand, the T activists were also keen on making the second phase of rail roko a success. To devise strategies in this regard, the TJAC leaders along with employees and students will hold meetings on October 11. They said they would bring motor vehicles and bullock carts on to the railway tracks to obstruct trains.