Rail Mishap Raises Concerns over Signal Assets
The recent rail mishap involving the Coromandel Express has sent shockwaves through the Railway Board, prompting a comprehensive assessment of signal assets nationwide. The incident, which saw the Coromandel Express collide with a stationary goods train and the passing Howrah Express sparked investigations into its cause. Initial findings suggest that the point was set for the loop line intended for the Coromandel Express, while the signal to the train crew indicated the mainline. Surprisingly, the data loggers failed to reflect any errors, raising concerns about their reliability. The Railways' internal memo highlights the absence of any recorded mix-up, a suspected cause of the deadly accident.
Deeply disturbed by the investigation's findings, senior officials from the Signal & Telecom Department at the Railway Board held urgent discussions to address the emerging issues. Consequently, they have issued instructions to signal officers across the 68 divisions, emphasizing the importance of cross-checking all points and rectifying any errors. Zonal bosses have been tasked with monitoring these checks to ensure the coordination and accuracy of every rail point and panel.
In a circular following the discussions, an incident in Orissa, under the South Eastern Railway Zone, was cited as a case study. The mishap involved the 12841 Coromandel Express and 12864 Shalimar Express. Both loop lines were occupied by stationary goods rakes, while the mainlines were clear, with all green signals displayed. The puzzling question remains: how did the 12864 Shalimar Express enter the loop line? One theory suggests that an erroneous setting occurred in the Operations Control, directing the train onto the occupied loop line. However, this discrepancy was not reflected in the data loggers, perplexing even experienced railway officials.
Railway officials are grappling with numerous doubts and seeking answers to the incident, including whether a split in the point caused the derailment. Another possibility under investigation is whether incorrect wiring during routine repair works occurred without proper cross-verification. The maintenance team often faces time constraints during blocks, leading to oversight of crucial aspects. The signal teams are also questioning whether there was adequate cable matching between indoor and outdoor panels. Mismatched wiring can have disastrous consequences, emphasizing the need for meticulous attention. Furthermore, the validation of data logger leads and their potential for generating misleading indications is being investigated. Proper disconnection and reconnection protocols after restoration and the functioning of assets from the panel and site are also under scrutiny.
Acknowledgment of these instructions from all maintainers is required within 24 hours, and Chief Signal and Telecom Engineers bear the responsibility of ensuring compliance from the ground level.
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