Jhajha. Regarding railway operations, Eastern Railway is continuously working to ensure the safety of railway operations especially during fog and bad weather. In light of this commitment, Eastern Railway has implemented extensive measures aimed at enhancing safety protocols. These measures include various aspects of infrastructure, train operations and crew preparation. Its results are visible in operations.
Many effective measures were taken
Asansol Divisional Information Officer Deeptimay Dutt said that with cold winds blowing and winter fog spreading, the safety department of Eastern Railway is working across all disciplines to take all possible measures for safe operation of trains during the fog season. . Due to this, safe railway operations are taking place. Many effective measures have been taken for this.
infrastructure improvements
PRO informed that rail infrastructure through deployment of reliable fog safe devices in all locomotives running in fog affected areas, modification of automatic signaling system as per prescribed guidelines for better efficiency, provision of adequate lime marking and enhanced visibility facilities. The structure has been strengthened.
Preparing for fog season
He informed that adequate supply of detonators to supplement colored light signals in poor visibility conditions, installation of all signal boards, whistle boards, fog signal posts, gate barriers at busy level crossings before the onset of fog season to improve visibility. During repair work, provision has been made for LED based flasher tail light in addition to red tail lamp fitted at the rear end of the guard’s brake van or the last vehicle.
operational measures
PRO informed that rationalization of movements including reduction in loco changes and shunting to reduce congestion during fog, PME (Periodic Medical Examination)/Refresher for loco pilots, assistant loco pilots and guards before the commencement of fog season. Completing training on priority, crew relocation and infrastructure adjustments to accommodate increased duty hours during fog have been regularly reviewed.
Increased visibility and detonator placement
PRO Shri Dutta informed that Visibility Test Object (VTO) has been introduced to guide station masters in deciding when to install detonators for incoming trains for proper operation. He said clear guidelines have been given on when detonators are necessary considering factors such as reliable fog safe devices, pre-warning and speed limits.
Precautions for loco pilot
He said that during fog, emphasis has been laid on not exceeding the prescribed and controlled speed limit of 75 km per hour for loco pilots. Gatekeepers and road users at level crossings have been instructed to blow whistles repeatedly to warn them. He said that the crew has been trained on the systems of trains operating during fog. He said that Eastern Railway remains steadfast in its commitment towards safety. So that safe railway operations can take place.