Train travel has long been hailed as one of the safest and most comfortable modes of transportation. In recent years, passenger comfort in Indian Railways has seen significant improvements. However, the safety aspect of train travel remains a concern, especially in light of recent incidents. The tragic train accident in Baleshwar, Odisha, on June 2, 2023, where about 300 passengers lost their lives, raised expectations for enhanced safety measures from the government and the Ministry of Railways. Unfortunately, recent statistics paint a grim picture.
Recent Train Accidents Highlight Ongoing Safety Concerns
On July 29, 2024, the 18-car Mumbai-bound Howrah-CSMT Express derailed near Chakradharpur in Jharkhand, resulting in the deaths of two passengers and injuries to at least 23 others. This incident marked the third passenger train accident in the past six weeks, following the collision of a freight train with the Kanchenjunga Express near NJP on June 17 and the derailment of the Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express at Gonda in Uttar Pradesh on July 18. These accidents have collectively claimed 17 lives and injured over a hundred passengers in just 42 days.
The Role of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav, an ex-IAS officer with an impressive academic background, including an M.Tech from IIT Kanpur and an MBA from the University of Pennsylvania, USA, has been at the forefront of Indian Railways’ administration. Despite his credentials in technology and management, the recent spate of accidents raises questions about the effectiveness of his leadership in ensuring railway safety.
Investigations and Allegations
Following each accident, the Ministry of Railways has promptly ordered investigations. However, the public remains largely unaware of the outcomes of these inquiries. The situation has become so dire that investigations into one accident are often overshadowed by subsequent incidents. Faults in the signaling system or line disturbances have been cited as causes for the accidents, with some quarters alleging sabotage.
Challenges in Railway Operations
Reports indicate a significant shortage of manpower within Indian Railways, exacerbated by a decade-long halt in recruitment. Key positions such as Loco Pilot, Assistant Loco Pilot, and Train Manager remain understaffed. This strain extends to traffic control and line monitoring, crucial areas for ensuring safe train operations. Despite discussions about anti-collision devices or ‘cobch,’ these technologies appear to be inconsistently implemented, as evidenced by recent collisions.
The Future of Indian Railways
While the introduction of semi-high-speed Vande Bharat Express trains and the Prime Minister’s keen interest in bullet trains highlight efforts to modernize the railways, these advancements cannot overshadow the pressing need for enhanced passenger safety. Allegations of insufficient staffing and inadequate implementation of safety technologies underscore the challenges facing Indian Railways.
Accountability and Responsibility
As the highest authority of Indian Railways, the Union Minister of Railways bears significant responsibility for both the successes and failures of the railway system. Historically, railway ministers have resigned in the wake of major accidents, acknowledging their accountability. In the current scenario, the onus is on Minister Ashwini Vaishnav to address these safety concerns effectively and restore public confidence in the safety of train travel.
In conclusion, while passenger comfort has undoubtedly increased in Indian Railways, safety remains a critical issue. The recent accidents underscore the need for comprehensive measures to prevent future tragedies and ensure the well-being of passengers. The public expects transparent investigations, effective implementation of safety technologies, and a robust workforce to safeguard India’s lifeline—its railways.
