Goods train derails between Valsad and Surat stations in Gujarat

Posted 20 Jul 2024

2 min read

Earlier, Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express had derailed in Uttar Pradesh and last month there was a collision between the Kanchanjungha Express and a goods train.

Reasons for Train Accidents

Under-investment in Railways: Slow expansion of rail network is leading to severe congestion and safety compromises.
Derailments: They’re the highest reason for casualties (1127 derailments during 2017-21).
Accidents due to failure of railway staff: Over 50% of accidents are due to lapses like carelessness in working, non-observance of safety rules, etc.
- Overworked loco-pilots exceed stipulated hours, increasing accident risk.
Unmanned Railway Crossings: Land (encroachment and rehabilitation) issues and delay in completion of road over bridge/road under bridge.

Measures to improve Rail Safety

Accelerate adoption of Linke Hoffman Busch (LHB) coaches to reduce casualties during derailments, as they don't pile up.
Improve working conditions and amenities for loco-pilots to enhance performance.
Standardize the location of signals based on visibility, braking distance, and train speed.
Eliminate the remaining unmanned Railway crossings on metre and narrow gauge tracks.
Accelerate the deployment of the KAVACH train collision avoidance system.

Steps taken to improve Rail safety

Following Justice Khanna Committee recommendations, a separate Safety Department was established, to enhance train operation safety.
Rashtriya Rail Sanraksha Kosh (2017-18) for replacement/renewal/upgradation of critical safety assets.
All unmanned level crossings (UMLCs) on the Broad Gauge (BG) route have been eliminated.
All locomotives are equipped with Vigilance Control Devices (VCD) to ensure alertness of Loco Pilots