Ashwani Vaishnaw unveils measures taken by govt to enhance safety in train operations

The railway minister said that measures like electrical/electronic interlocking systems, level crossing gate interlocking, and complete track cabeen implemented to boost safety and prevent accidents. (Representational image)

Union Minister of Railways, Ashwani Vaishnaw, in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha on December 6, said the government has implemented a comprehensive set of measures to enhance safety in train operations.

The Railway Minister's initiatives also involve a variety of strategic interventions to reduce accidents.

The key initiatives include the introduction of the Rashtriya Rail Sanraksha Kosh (RRSK) in 2017. With a substantial corpus of Rs 1 lakh crore over five years, the RRSK focuses on the replacement, renewal, and upgradation of critical safety assets. Notably, a gross expenditure of Rs. 1.08 lakh crore has been incurred on RRSK works from 2017-18 till 2021-22.

To address potential human failure-related accidents, Electrical/Electronic Interlocking Systems with centralized operation of points and signals have been installed at 6498 stations by October 31, 2023. Additionally, the interlocking of Level Crossing (LC) Gates at 11137 level Crossing Gates has been completed, enhancing safety at LC gates.

Additionally, complete track circuiting have been implemented to eliminate accidents and enhance overall safety, the railway minister's reply said.

The use of vigilance control devices in locomotives, fog safety devices and modern track structures further contributed to a safer railway environment. The mechanisation of track laying, preventive maintenance, and the elimination of unmanned level crossings are also significant steps in ensuring safe train operations.

The government has prioritised safety in signalling, track and fire prevention with ongoing efforts in staff training and the introduction of advanced safety technologies across the railway network.