Railway recommends double locking arrangements, a safety drive to be launched soon
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New Delhi: Following the tragic triple-train accident in Odisha's Balasore district that took the life of 275 people and injured over 1000, the Indian Railways has taken immediate action to address the potential causes of the incident. Railway officials initially suspected "signalling interference" or sabotage as the reason behind the crash.
Sabotage and tampering with the electronic interlocking system were also suspected.
In a letter addressed to the general managers of all zones, the Railway Board has instructed the implementation of a safety drive with a particular focus on the relay rooms and compounds housing signalling equipment within station limits. The board has emphasised the need for "double locking arrangements" in these locations to ensure enhanced security.
The Railway Board has also outlined specific measures that should be undertaken during the safety drive. It has called for a comprehensive check of all relay rooms to verify the proper functioning of the "double locking arrangement." Additionally, the board has stressed the importance of data logging and generating SMS alerts for the opening and closing of relay room doors. Strict adherence to established norms and guidelines for the disconnection and reconnection of signalling and telecommunication equipment has also been emphasised.
The safety drive is expected to cover 100% of the designated locations, with 10% of them being scrutinised by officers to ensure thoroughness. The Railway Board has directed suitable follow-up actions to be taken for any deficiencies or irregularities identified during the drive. The results of the safety initiative must be reported to the board by June 14.
In relation to the accident, approximately 54 officials, who were on duty at the time, from the Kharagpur Division of the South Eastern Railway have been summoned for an inquiry scheduled for June 5 and June 6. Off-duty railway officials who were onboard any of the involved trains and officials who were the first to arrive at the accident site have also been summoned.