Enhancing Train Safety Protocols Amid Recent Accidents

Overview

Recent train accidents in India have brought to light significant confusion regarding protocols for train operations during signal failures, especially in regions utilizing automatic signaling systems. These unfortunate incidents emphasize the urgent need for establishing clear and effective Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure safety and prevent future accidents.

Background

Major Incidents

• Shalimar-Chennai Coromandel Express Collision (June 2, 2023): This tragic incident resulted in approximately 300 deaths and over 900 injuries.
• Waltair Division Collision (October 29, 2023): This collision caused the deaths of 17 passengers.
• Kanchenjunga Train Accident (June 17, 2023): This accident led to 10 fatalities and numerous injuries.

In each of these cases, signal failure or confusion over train operating protocols during such failures was suspected as the primary cause.

Current Issues

Confusion Over SOPs

• TA-912 Order: The Eastern Railway issued and then swiftly retracted an order banning TA-912, a travel authority that permits loco pilots to proceed past signals showing red during signal failures.
• Western Railway Clarifications: The Western Railway sought clarifications on protocols for travel authorities during automatic signaling failures, citing contradictory rules in the General and Subsidiary Rules 2008 edition.

Contradictory Rules

A senior official from the Western Railway pointed out that the rules outlined in Chapter IX of the Automatic Block System in the General and Subsidiary Rules 2008 edition are contradictory and require critical assessment and correction.

Specific Incidents

Kanchenjunga Train Accident

During this incident, the loco pilot, Anil Kumar, communicated his last instruction to his assistant to apply brakes before the collision, underscoring the critical necessity for clear procedures during emergencies.

Actions Needed

Clear SOPs

• Critical Assessment: The rules concerning train operations in the event of signal failures must be critically evaluated to eliminate contradictions and ambiguities.
• Effective Communication: There is a need for clear communication from senior officials to staff regarding the correct procedures to be followed during signal failures.

Training and Awareness

• Regular Training: Conduct regular training sessions for loco pilots and station masters on updated protocols.
• Simulation Drills: Implement simulation drills to prepare staff for real-life scenarios involving signal failures.

Technological Enhancements

• Automatic Signaling Upgrades: Upgrade automatic signaling systems to incorporate fail-safes and redundancies that can minimize human error risk.
• Real-Time Monitoring: Utilize real-time monitoring systems to promptly detect and rectify signal failures.

Conclusion

The recent train accidents highlight the pressing need for clear, consistent, and effective signal failure protocols in railway operations. By addressing the contradictions in current rules, providing rigorous training, and leveraging advanced technology, railway authorities can significantly enhance safety and prevent future tragedies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What are the main causes of recent train accidents in India?
Answer: Recent train accidents in India are primarily attributed to signal failures and confusion over operational protocols, leading to catastrophic outcomes.

Q2. How can train safety be improved in India?
Answer: Improving train safety involves establishing clear SOPs, conducting regular training for staff, and upgrading technological systems to prevent human error.

Q3. What role does technology play in railway safety?
Answer: Technology, such as real-time monitoring and advanced signaling systems, can enhance railway safety by promptly detecting issues and minimizing risks.

Q4. Why is training important for loco pilots?
Answer: Training is crucial for loco pilots as it ensures they are well-prepared to handle emergencies, follow updated protocols, and operate safely during signal failures.

Q5. What is TA-912 in railway operations?
Answer: TA-912 is a travel authority that allows loco pilots to proceed past signals displaying red during signal failures, though its usage is subject to specific protocols.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What was the primary cause of the Shalimar-Chennai Coromandel Express collision?
A) Mechanical failure
B) Signal failure
C) Human error
D) Weather conditions
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: What action is suggested for improving SOPs in railways?
A) Increase ticket prices
B) Conduct critical assessments of existing rules
C) Reduce staff training
D) Limit communication
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: How many deaths occurred in the Kanchenjunga Train Accident?
A) 5
B) 10
C) 17
D) 20
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: What is one proposed technological enhancement for railways?
A) Manual signal checks
B) Upgrading automatic signaling systems
C) Reducing train speeds
D) Increasing staff numbers
Correct Answer: B