Railway Ministry to Implement Unified Train Safety Standards in 10 Days

New Delhi: On Wednesday, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the imminent release of a unified train operation safety norm, specifically targeting signal failure issues. This comprehensive new standard, set to be issued within the next 10 days, will be applicable across all railway zones in India.

Minister Vaishnaw, speaking to media representatives, explained that the Ministry of Railways has embarked on a mission to harmonize the subsidiary rules (SR) governing all 17 railway zones. This move was prompted by a critical investigation report from the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS). The CRS report highlighted inconsistencies in the current norms, which came to light during the investigation into the Kanchanjunga train accident on June 17.

The accident, a devastating collision between a goods train and the stationary Sealdah-bound Kanchanjunga Express, resulted in the tragic loss of 10 lives, including the loco pilot of the goods train. The incident occurred in West Bengal, underscoring the necessity for uniform safety protocols across all railway zones to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Minister Vaishnaw stressed the critical need for these new unified safety norms. “The CRS report pointed out significant contradictions in the norms across various railway zones,” he said. “To ensure the safety of passengers and railway personnel, it is imperative to implement a standardized set of rules that all zones must adhere to.”

The forthcoming safety norm aims to eradicate discrepancies and bolster the overall safety of train operations, with a particular focus on managing signal failures. The Ministry’s proactive response to the CRS’s recommendations underscores its dedication to enhancing railway safety standards and averting future accidents.

The introduction of these unified norms represents a significant advancement towards creating a safer and more dependable railway network in India. Railway authorities anticipate that this initiative will not only improve safety but also restore public confidence in train travel, ensuring the protection and well-being of passengers and railway staff alike.