📷 Image Credits: The Hindu
After a series of major accidents causing multiple deaths, the Indian Railways is grappling with confusion regarding the operation of trains during signal failures, particularly in automatic signaling territories. A recent incident involved the Kanchenjunga Express train, which was rammed by a goods train near the Phansidewa area in Darjeeling on June 18. This collision has reignited concerns about signal failures and the protocols for operating trains during such situations. Several other tragic accidents, including the collision of three trains in South Eastern Railway in 2023, the collision of two passenger trains in Andhra Pradesh in 2023, and the Kanchanjunga train accident in West Bengal in June 2024, have highlighted the importance of clarity in operating procedures during signal failures.
In light of increasing fatal accidents, Zonal Railways are grappling with confusion regarding the Standard Operating Procedures. The Eastern Railway recently banned TA-912, a travel authority issued during signal failures, only to withdraw the order the next day, citing an error in its issuance. Similarly, the Western Railway in Mumbai has sought clarifications on certain issues related to travel authorities issued during signal failures. There is a pressing need for a critical assessment of current norms and rules related to train operations during signal failures to avoid any confusion.
The officer from the Ahmedabad Division pointed out contradictions in the rules surrounding train operations during automatic signaling system failures and stressed the need for clarity. With various rules in place, including speed restrictions, it is essential to ensure that staff are well-informed and trained to handle abnormal working conditions during signal failures. The Chennai Division of Southern Railway has announced plans for a special drive to educate running staff, including loco pilots, on working in automatic signaling sections during abnormal conditions. The recent accidents have underscored the urgent need for standardized and clear protocols to be followed by railway staff during signal failures to prevent tragedies and ensure passenger safety.
