A new RTI query unveils a concerning trend in India’s rail safety, with an average of three significant train derailments occurring each month over the past five years. Recent statistics show that 18 such accidents have already taken place within the first five months of 2024. Alarmingly, the root causes include poor maintenance, aging infrastructure, and human errors. Despite substantial budgets allocated for safety improvements, a significant portion remains unspent, raising critical safety concerns amid ongoing high-profile infrastructure projects.
Introduction
Recent reports indicate a troubling trend in India's railway safety, with statistics revealing that over the past five years, there have been an average of three significant train derailments monthly. Alarmingly, 18 accidents have already been recorded in the initial five months of 2024.
The Rise in Train Accidents
According to the RTI query conducted by activist Chandra Shekhar Gaur from Neemuch, Madhya Pradesh, the Indian rail system is witnessing a disturbing increase in train accidents, with both freight and passenger services being affected. Gaur stated, "The government seems to prioritize high-profile infrastructure projects over addressing critical safety issues." This statement underscores the urgent need for improvements in rail safety protocols.
Causes of Train Derailments
Data shows a total of 200 major train accidents in the last five years, with 145 classified as derailments. Experts, including a senior Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS) official, attribute these incidents largely to poor track maintenance and outdated infrastructure. Critical factors such as improper track alignment, defective signaling systems, and the lack of upkeep on necessary structures like bridges and tunnels have been flagged as significant contributors.
The Impact of Overcrowding
As one of the busiest railway networks worldwide, India's rail system handles millions of passengers and vast freight volumes daily. Overcrowding and overloaded goods trains exert additional pressure on existing tracks, escalating the risk of derailments, as noted by activists in the field.
Human Factor in Accidents
Human error remains a pivotal factor in these accidents. Instances of driver fatigue, inadequate training, and negligence play a significant role in the safety record of Indian Railways. Moreover, failures in signaling and communication among railway personnel have exacerbated the risks, as highlighted by a retired chief engineer.
Public Outcry Following Major Incidents
The tragic Balasore rail accident in June 2023, which led to the loss of 296 lives and over a thousand injuries, has intensified public scrutiny of railway safety. This catastrophe has sparked calls for immediate governmental action to bolster safety measures and infrastructure.
Regional Accident Statistics
Data indicates that Northern Railways tops the chart for the highest number of accidents, recording 25 incidents over the past five years, followed by Central Railway with 22 and North Central Railway with 21.
Financial Constraints in Safety Upgrades
Indian Railways operates over 67,000 kilometers and serves approximately 230 million passengers daily. Despite the allocation of ₹58,459 crores for track renewal, an alarming deficit of ₹103,395 crores was noted by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India, with only ₹671 crores actually utilized by the end of the fiscal year 2020-21, amounting to a mere 0.7% of the required budget.
Conclusion
In a recent statement, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted that the average yearly train accidents have decreased from 171 between 2004-14 to 71 between 2014-23. However, the current statistics cast a shadow on these improvements, signifying that more rigorous measures are necessary to enhance safety in Indian Railways.
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