THE CONTEXT: Train accidents, particularly collisions, often result in tragic loss of life and are typically avoidable. Safety is a fundamental aspect of rail operations, yet incidents like the recent collision involving the Kanchenjunga Express at Rangapani highlight ongoing vulnerabilities. The current state of railway safety in India, the measures being taken to improve it, and the urgent need for further action needs to be examined urgently.
THE ISSUES:
- Human Error and Rule Violations: Human error, particularly the disregard for established safety protocols, is a significant factor in many train collisions. The preliminary investigation of the Kanchenjunga Express incident suggests that the loco pilot violated rule no. 9.01 of the General and Subsidiary Rules by passing an automatic signal at a restricted speed of 15 kmph, leading to the collision with a stationary passenger train. This highlights the need for stringent adherence to safety rules and continuous training for railway staff.
- Signalling System Failures: Technical glitches and failures in the signaling system are recurrent issues. The section where the Kanchenjunga Express accident occurred had recently been converted to an automatic signaling system, which allows trains to follow each other at restricted speeds governed by signal aspects. However, failures in these systems can lead to severe accidents, as seen in this case and the Balasore tragedy.
- Infrastructure and Maintenance: The Indian Railways has historically suffered from inadequate maintenance and delayed repairs of its infrastructure, including tracks, bridges, and signaling equipment. Despite recent financial allocations through the Rashtriya Rail Sanraksha Kosh (RRSK) and other funds, there are still significant gaps in the timely renewal and maintenance of critical assets. This underlines the need for a robust maintenance regime to prevent accidents.
- Implementation of Safety Technologies: The deployment of advanced safety technologies like the KAVACH anti-collision device is crucial but slow. While sections like Delhi-Howrah and Delhi-Mumbai have been identified for KAVACH implementation, the process is time-consuming and not yet widespread. In the interim, immediate measures are needed to prevent collisions, including using low-cost equipment to aid driving crews and enhance preventive maintenance of signalling assets.
- Funding and Resource Allocation: While there has been an unprecedented allocation for capital expenditure in recent years, the focus has often been on modernizing trains and stations rather than essential safety upgrades. Reduced funds for track renewal and the underutilization of allocated funds for safety-related works have been significant issues. Ensuring that safety receives the highest priority in resource allocation is critical.
- Accountability and Training: There is a pressing need for accountability at all levels of railway management. Regular and intensive training programs for railway staff, especially those involved in operational safety, are essential. Treating every Signal Passed at Danger (SPAD) case as a major accident and dealing with it accordingly can help foster a safety culture.
THE WAY FORWARD:
- Implementation of Kavach Anti-Collision System: Expedite the installation of Kavach on high-density routes such as Delhi-Howrah and Delhi-Mumbai corridors. This involves fitting locomotives, stations, and trackside with the necessary equipment. Extend the implementation of Kavach to cover more routes beyond the initial 10,000 route kilometers to ensure comprehensive safety across the network. European Train Control System (ETCS) has proven effective in preventing collisions and enhancing safety. Adopting a phased approach to cover the entire network can yield significant safety improvements.
- Strengthening Preventive Maintenance and Upgrading Infrastructure: Implement mechanized methods for track maintenance to ensure precision and efficiency. Conduct frequent safety audits and inspections to identify and rectify potential hazards before accidents occur. Modernize signaling systems to include electronic interlocking and complete track circuiting to eliminate human error-related accidents. Japan’s high-speed rail network employs rigorous maintenance schedules and advanced inspection technologies, such as the Comprehensive Automatic Train Inspection System (CATIS) to maintain safety.
- Enhancing Training and Staffing: Provide regular and updated training for railway staff on the latest safety technologies, equipment, and protocols. Ensure sufficient staffing in safety-critical positions to avoid overwork and fatigue among employees. The UK has implemented extensive training programs and safety protocols for railway staff, contributing to one of the lowest accident rates in Europe.
- Establishing a Dedicated Safety Regulatory Body: Establish an independent body with the authority to set safety standards, conduct audits, and enforce accountability. Within the Ministry of Railways, appoint a dedicated member responsible for overseeing all safety operations and initiatives. The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) in the UK conducts impartial investigations into railway accidents and incidents, providing recommendations to prevent future occurrences.
- Leveraging Advanced Technologies and AI: Use AI and machine learning models to predict and prevent potential accidents by analyzing historical data and real-time inputs. Utilize sensors and IoT devices to monitor the health of tracks and rolling stock, enabling proactive maintenance. Research has shown that reinforcement learning models can effectively predict and prevent accidents by learning from past incidents and continuously improving safety measures.
THE CONCLUSION:
Despite significant investments and improvements in railway safety, collisions remain a critical concern for Indian Railways. Implementing advanced safety systems like KAVACH is essential, but immediate measures are needed to prevent further tragedies. Ensuring zero accidents must remain the goal for the Indian Railways as it continues to expand and modernize.
UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:
Q.1 The setting up of a Rail Tariff Authority to regulate fares will subject the cash-strapped Indian Railways to demand subsidies for the obligation to operate non-profitable routes and services. Considering the experience in the power sector, discuss whether the proposed reform is expected to benefit the consumers, the Indian Railways, or the private container operators. 2014
Q.2 Why are public-private partnerships (PPP) required in infrastructural projects? Examine the role of the PPP model in redeveloping Railway Stations in India. 2022
MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:
Q.1 Discuss the measures taken by Indian Railways to enhance safety and reduce train accidents. Evaluate the effectiveness of these measures and suggest additional steps that could be taken to further improve rail safety in India.
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