Railway Safety in India

Railway safety in India has been in question time and again in the wake of recent accidents. Even though Indian Railways accords the highest priority to safety in train operations, the critical shortcomings of the system are to be looked into. Read here to learn more.

Indian railways have taken a series of safety measures over the years which have improved the safety of train operations.

The average number of consequential train accidents during the period, 2004-14 was 171 per annum, while the average number of consequential train accidents during the period, 2014-23 declined to 71 per annum.

During the period from 2014-15 to 2022-23, consequential train accidents have reduced from 135 in 2014-15 to 48 in 2022-23.

Table of Contents

Railway Safety in India

Railway safety is a critical aspect of the operations of Indian Railways, one of the largest rail networks in the world. Ensuring the safety of passengers, workers, and the infrastructure is a multifaceted challenge that involves addressing various factors such as accidents, infrastructure maintenance, technology, and human resources.

Accident Prevention and Management

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• Collision Avoidance Systems: Implementation of systems like the Train Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) to prevent collisions.
• Derailment Prevention: Regular monitoring and maintenance of tracks to prevent derailments.
• Fire Safety: Installation of fire detection and suppression systems in trains and stations.
• Level Crossing Safety: Upgrading unmanned level crossings to manned crossings or replacing them with overpasses/underpasses.

Infrastructure Maintenance

• Track Inspection: Regular inspection of tracks using ultrasonic flaw detection machines and track recording cars.
• Bridge Maintenance: Periodic inspection and strengthening of railway bridges.
• Signalling Systems: Upgradation to modern, automated signalling systems to improve efficiency and safety.

Technological Interventions

• Anti-Collision Devices (ACD): Deployment of ACDs to prevent train collisions.
• Automatic Train Protection (ATP): Implementation of ATP systems to enhance safety.
• Mobile Train Radio Communication (MTRC): Use of MTRC for better communication between train drivers and control rooms.

Human Resources and Training

• Training Programs: Regular training and refresher courses for railway staff, especially those involved in operations and safety.
• Awareness Campaigns: Campaigns to educate the public about railway safety, especially at level crossings.
• Fatigue Management: Ensuring proper rest periods and working conditions for train crew and other safety-critical staff.

Emergency Preparedness

• Disaster Management Plans: Preparation and regular updating of disaster management plans for various scenarios.
• Rescue and Relief Operations: Quick response teams equipped with necessary tools and equipment for rescue and relief operations.

Regulatory Framework

• Safety Audit: Regular safety audits by internal and external agencies.
• Railway Safety Commissioner: An independent authority responsible for the safety of railways.

Government Initiatives and Programs

• Mission Zero Accident: An initiative focusing on eliminating accidents by addressing issues like unmanned level crossings, derailments, and collisions.
• Rashtriya Rail Sanraksha Kosh (RRSK): A dedicated fund with a corpus of INR 1 lakh crore over five years (2017-2022) for critical safety-related works.
• Kavach (Train Collision Avoidance System): An indigenous automatic train protection system developed to prevent collisions.
• Project Utkrisht: Aiming to upgrade the condition of coaches and enhance safety features.
• Bio-Toilets: Installation of bio-toilets in trains to improve hygiene and safety, particularly in reducing track corrosion.
• Modernization of Signaling: Adoption of modern signalling systems like the European Train Control System (ETCS) to enhance safety and efficiency.
• Vigilance control devices: All locomotives are equipped with Vigilance Control Devices (VCD) to ensure alertness of Loco Pilots.
• Fog safety device: A GPS-based Fog Safety Device (FSD) is provided to loco pilots in fog-affected areas which enables loco pilots to know the distance of the approaching landmarks like signals, level crossing gates etc.

Commission of Railway Safety (CRS)

The Commission of Railway Safety (CRS) is an organization under the Ministry of Civil Aviation in India, responsible for ensuring the safety of railway operations across the country. It functions as an independent statutory authority tasked with the inspection and approval of new railway lines, railway stations, and other railway infrastructure to ensure they meet safety standards.

• Safety Inspections and Audits:
  • Conducting regular and surprise inspections of railway infrastructure, including tracks, bridges, tunnels, and stations.
  • Ensuring that the infrastructure meets the prescribed safety standards and guidelines.
  • Inspecting and approving new railway lines, doubling of tracks, gauge conversions, and electrification projects.
  • Ensuring that all new projects adhere to safety regulations before they are opened for passenger or freight services.
  • Investigating serious railway accidents to determine their causes and suggest measures to prevent recurrence.
  • Preparing detailed reports on accidents, including technical analysis and recommendations for safety improvements.
  • Monitoring the implementation of safety protocols and procedures by Indian Railways.
  • Ensuring compliance with the Railways Act, 1989, and other relevant laws and regulations.
  • Advising the Ministry of Railways on matters related to railway safety and infrastructure.
  • Recommending policy changes and safety measures based on findings from inspections and accident investigations.
  • Promoting safety awareness among railway staff and the public.
  • Conducting training programs and workshops on railway safety and emergency response.

  Railway Safety Act 2023 – Overview and Key Provisions

  The Railway Safety Act 2023 is a legislative framework aimed at enhancing the safety and security of railway operations in India. This act seeks to address various safety concerns, streamline safety protocols, and improve the overall safety standards of the Indian Railways.

  Here is an overview of the key provisions and objectives of the Railway Safety Act 2023.

  • Enhance Passenger Safety:
    • To ensure the highest standards of safety for passengers travelling on Indian Railways.
    • To prevent accidents and mishaps through stringent safety protocols.
    • To upgrade and maintain railway infrastructure, including tracks, bridges, and signalling systems.
    • To incorporate advanced technologies for monitoring and maintaining railway infrastructure.
    • To establish clear guidelines and standards for railway safety.
    • To create a robust regulatory framework for monitoring and enforcing safety measures.
    • To educate and train railway staff on safety protocols and emergency response.
    • To increase awareness among passengers regarding safety practices.
    • To develop and implement efficient emergency response plans.
    • To ensure a quick and effective response in case of accidents or disasters.

    Key Provisions of the Railway Safety Act 2023:

    • Establishment of Railway Safety Authority:
      • A dedicated Railway Safety Authority (RSA) to oversee and regulate safety measures across the Indian Railways.
      • The RSA will have the power to conduct inspections, audits, and safety assessments.
      • Mandatory adherence to upgraded safety standards for railway infrastructure.
      • Regular maintenance and inspection schedules for tracks, bridges, and signalling systems.
      • Implementation of comprehensive Safety Management Systems (SMS) for all railway operations.
      • Continuous monitoring and improvement of safety practices.
      • Adoption of advanced technologies such as automated track inspection systems, real-time monitoring, and predictive maintenance.
      • Use of AI and IoT for enhancing safety and preventive maintenance.
      • Regular training and certification programs for railway staff on safety protocols.
      • Specialized training for emergency response teams and first responders.
      • Installation of safety features such as CCTV cameras, emergency communication systems, and fire detection systems in trains and stations.
      • Awareness campaigns for passengers on safety protocols and emergency procedures.
      • Establishment of an independent Accident Investigation Bureau to investigate railway accidents and incidents.
      • Mandatory reporting of accidents, near-misses, and safety breaches.
      • Development of comprehensive emergency response plans for various types of accidents and disasters.
      • Regular drills and simulations to test and improve emergency response capabilities.
      • Strict penalties for non-compliance with safety regulations and standards.
      • Incentives for railway operators and staff who consistently adhere to safety protocols.

      Challenges in Railway Safety

      • Ageing Infrastructure: Much of the railway infrastructure, including tracks and bridges, is old and requires significant maintenance and upgrades.
      • Funding Constraints: Ensuring adequate funding for safety-related projects and maintenance is a continuous challenge.
      • Human Error: Human error remains a significant cause of accidents, necessitating better training and stricter adherence to safety protocols.
      • Technological Integration: Integrating modern technology with existing systems can be complex and resource-intensive.
      • Public Awareness: Raising public awareness about safety practices, especially at level crossings and while boarding or alighting from trains, is essential.

      Recent railway accidents

      Railway accidents in India continue to be a significant concern despite ongoing efforts to improve safety and infrastructure. Recent reports highlight several incidents that have brought this issue to the forefront.

      • In June 2024, the derailment of the Kanchanjunga Express in the Phansidewa area of Darjeeling resulted in the deaths of nine people. The train was hit from behind by a goods train, causing multiple carriages to derail. This incident prompted criticism of the central government’s handling of railway safety and infrastructure improvements​.
      • Additionally, the tragic Odisha train crash earlier this year was a stark reminder of the persistent safety challenges. The incident, which resulted in over 275 deaths and hundreds of injuries, revealed significant shortcomings in railway safety protocols and infrastructure. An audit report from the previous year had flagged several safety issues, including inadequate maintenance and outdated signalling systems, which contributed to the severity of the accident.

      These accidents underscore the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in railway safety and infrastructure management. The government has faced criticism for not prioritizing passenger safety and for focusing more on beautification and fare increases rather than essential safety upgrades.

      Conclusion

      Railway safety in India is a multifaceted issue that requires continuous effort, investment, and innovation.

      While significant progress has been made through various initiatives and technological advancements, challenges remain, particularly in maintaining and upgrading ageing infrastructure and ensuring adequate funding.

      The government’s focus on safety through programs like Mission Zero Accident and RRSK, along with the deployment of modern technologies, is crucial for improving the safety and reliability of the Indian Railways.

      Ensuring the safety of passengers, employees, and infrastructure is paramount for the sustainable and efficient operation of one of the world’s largest railway networks.

      Related articles:

      • History of Indian Railways
      • Privatisation in the Railways
      • Socio-economic effects of Railways

      -Article by Swathi Satish