The recent derailment of the Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express in Uttar Pradesh, resulting in the tragic loss of two lives and injuries to dozens, has once again brought the issue of rail safety in India to the forefront. This incident, alongside the collision involving the Sealdah-Agartala Kanchanjunga Express just a month prior, highlights critical lapses in railway operations and safety measures. Senior political figures, including Mallikarjun Kharge, have voiced their concerns and called for immediate action to prevent further tragedies. In this blog, we delve into the recent accidents, the accusations leveled against the current administration, and the urgent need for the implementation of the Kavach anti-collision system across India’s rail network.
Recent Accidents Highlighting Railway Safety Concerns
The derailment of the Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express in Uttar Pradesh is the latest in a series of unfortunate incidents plaguing the Indian Railways. This tragic accident led to the loss of two lives and left dozens injured, causing widespread concern and condemnation. Mallikarjun Kharge, a prominent political leader, took to social media platform X to express his grief and criticism, stating, “The derailment of Chandigarh-Dibrugarh Express in UP is yet another instance of how Modi Govt has systematically jeopardised Rail safety.”
Kharge’s statement reflects a growing sentiment that railway safety has been compromised under the current administration. He further pointed out a previous incident where 11 people lost their lives when a goods train collided with the Sealdah-Agartala Kanchanjunga Express. The Commissioner of Railway Safety’s report on this collision revealed alarming findings, including the failure of automatic signals, operational lapses, and the non-availability of critical safety equipment such as walkie-talkies for the loco pilot and train manager.
Accusations Against the Administration
Kharge’s accusations extend beyond mere operational lapses, pointing fingers directly at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Railway Minister. He criticized them for their apparent focus on self-publicity rather than addressing the systemic issues plaguing the Indian Railways. “PM Narendra Modi and his Railway Minister, who leave no opportunity for self-publicity, must take direct responsibility for the massive lapses that have plagued the Indian Railways,” Kharge stated.
This criticism underscores a growing frustration among the public and political figures regarding the perceived lack of accountability and proactive measures to enhance rail safety. The repeated incidents and subsequent loss of lives have created an urgent need for tangible actions rather than mere rhetoric.
The Call for Kavach Anti-Collision System
In light of these tragic incidents, Kharge and other concerned citizens are demanding the expeditious implementation of the Kavach anti-collision system on all rail routes across India. The Kavach system is designed to prevent collisions and enhance safety measures, providing a critical technological solution to mitigate human errors and operational lapses.
“Our single demand — The Kavach anti-collision system should be installed expeditiously on all routes across India to ensure enhanced safety measures and prevent accidents,” Kharge emphasized. This demand reflects a widespread consensus on the need for advanced safety technologies to safeguard the lives of passengers and railway personnel.