Introduction: The Eastern Railway, based in Kolkata, places paramount importance on ensuring the safety and reliability of railway operations, particularly during foggy and inclement weather conditions. To uphold this commitment, the railway has implemented a range of comprehensive measures, covering infrastructure upgrades, operational adjustments, and crew preparedness. These initiatives aim to enhance safety protocols and ensure a secure travel experience for passengers.
Infrastructure Enhancements: Recognizing the challenges posed by foggy conditions, Eastern Railway has taken significant steps to bolster its infrastructure. This includes the deployment of reliable Fog Safe Devices in all locomotives operating in fog-affected areas. The modification of the Automatic Signalling System aligns with prescribed guidelines to enhance operational efficiency. Strengthening rail infrastructure is achieved through adequate lime marking and improved visibility features, ensuring better navigation in adverse weather.
Preparation for Foggy Weather: In anticipation of foggy weather, the safety department has issued directives to address visibility concerns. Adequate supplies of detonators are provided to supplement color light signals in case of poor visibility. Repainting work on signal boards, whistle boards, fog signal posts, and gate barriers at busy level crossings is carried out before the onset of foggy season to improve visibility. Additionally, the provision of LED-based flasher tail lights enhances the visibility of the last vehicle in a train.
Operational Measures: To alleviate congestion during fog, the railway has undertaken the rationalization of movements. This involves a reduction in loco changes and shunting activities. The priority completion of Periodical Medical Examination (PME) and refresher training for loco pilots, assistant loco pilots, and guards before the onset of foggy weather ensures a prepared and efficient crew. Regular reviews of crew changing locations and infrastructure adjustments accommodate increased duty hours during fog.
Visibility Enhancement: Eastern Railway introduces Visibility Test Objects (VTO) to guide Station Masters in deciding when to place detonators for approaching trains. This proactive approach contributes to enhanced visibility and aids in making informed decisions to ensure the safety of train operations.
Detonator Placement: Clear guidelines on when detonators are necessary, considering factors such as reliable Fog Safe Devices, pre-warnings, and speed limits, are established. This ensures that detonators are strategically placed to enhance safety without causing unnecessary disruptions.
Loco Pilot Precautions: Defined speed limits for loco pilots during fog, with an emphasis on controlled speeds not exceeding 75 kmph, are implemented. Frequent whistling is encouraged to warn gatekeepers and road users at level crossings, promoting heightened awareness and safety.
Training and Awareness: The railway emphasizes the early completion of crew training on systems of working trains during fog. Relevant information is provided to crew and guards during sign-on, ensuring that everyone is well-informed and prepared for the challenges posed by foggy weather.
Conclusion: Shri Kausik Mitra, Chief Public Relations Officer of Eastern Railway, affirms the railway’s unwavering commitment to safety. These comprehensive measures underscore the railway’s dedication to providing a secure and reliable travel experience for passengers, even in challenging foggy weather conditions. Eastern Railway’s proactive approach to infrastructure enhancements, operational adjustments, and crew preparedness sets a benchmark for safety in the rail industry.
