30-sec summary
Odisha, a state in eastern India, was struck by a catastrophic train crash that has left the nation in shock. This tragic incident, considered one of India's worst railway disasters of the century, resulted in the loss of 275 lives and left over 1,000 individuals injured, many with severe wounds. As the shock and sadness spread across the entire country, questions are being raised about the factors that led to this calamity. Early investigations indicate that a problem with the signals, possibly caused by changes in the electronic system, might have played a role in the terrible crash. But is it the root cause?
The Calamity Unfolds
The incident happened near the Bahanaga Bazar station, located approximately 270 kilometres south of Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal. Three trains were involved in the tragic collision: the Coromandel Express, which was en route from Shalimar railway station to Chennai; the Howrah Superfast Express, which departed from Yesvantpur station in Bengaluru and was heading to Howrah; and a stationary goods train. While the exact sequence of events leading to the crash is still under investigation, initial reports suggest that the Coromandel Express derailed first, setting off a chain reaction that resulted in the collision.
Identifying the Cause: Progress in Investigation
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw visited the site of the tragic triple train collision in Balasore, Odisha, and has provided updates on the ongoing investigation. During his visit, Minister Vaishnaw mentioned that the change in the electronic interlocking system played a significant role in the accident.
The Commissioner of Railway Safety has been actively involved in the inquiry, collecting statements from witnesses and making swift progress. Minister Vaishnaw confirmed that the root cause of the accident had been identified, and the individuals responsible for the maintenance and operation of the railway infrastructure have been identified as well. The CRS inquiry report, which will provide insights into why the accident occurred, will be available soon.
How can Electronic Interlocking cause this incident?
An interlocking system plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and smooth operation of trains at railway junctions, stations, and signalling points. One of the key functions of the interlocking system is to ensure that the points, which are movable sections of the track allowing trains to switch tracks, are correctly aligned and locked before a train can pass over them. Additionally, track circuits, which are electrical circuits installed on the track, help detect the presence of trains. They provide information about whether a particular section of track is occupied or vacant, enabling the interlocking system to regulate train movements accordingly.
Electronic interlocking is an advanced system that uses software and electronic parts to control and monitor train movements. According to the rail minister, a modification in the electronic interlocking system might have caused wrong signals or incorrect directions. As a result, the Coromandel Express, travelling at high speed of over 120kmph, ended up on a side track instead of the main line. Tragically, it collided with a stationary goods train parked there.
Restoration Work in Progress: Efforts to Resume Normalcy
The minister said that the focus at present is on the restoration work. Efforts are underway to bring the railway tracks back to operational condition. Large numbers of personnel and machinery, including accident relief trains, cranes, and manpower, have been mobilised for the restoration work. Minister Vaishnaw expressed his determination to complete the restoration by Wednesday morning, enabling the resumption of train services on the affected track.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also visited the accident site and received briefings from Minister Vaishnaw and disaster management officers. The rescue operation has concluded, and now the focus is on repairing the damaged infrastructure and ensuring the safe resumption of train services.
Our opinion
The recent incident in India's railway system has shown that there is a great need to improve the infrastructure. Although the country has a large train network that serves millions of people every day, it is clear that significant upgrades and investments are necessary.
The Odisha train tragedy has had a lasting impact on the nation, with many lives lost and families devastated. As investigations continue to reveal the causes of this disaster, The safety of passengers should be the most important concern, and this can be achieved by improving the infrastructure and implementing strict safety measures. It is important for the nation to come together and address these issues, taking steps to prevent future disasters and protect lives.
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