2024 West Bengal Train Accident:
What Happened?
On June 17, 2024, a tragic train accident occurred in Darjeeling district, West Bengal, India. The Kanchanjunga Express, traveling from Agartala to Sealdah, collided with a goods train near Rangapani railway station. The cause of the accident is believed to be human error, as the goods train disregarded a signal and rammed into the passenger train from behind. This resulted in the derailment of three coaches of the Kanchanjunga Express.
The initial reports indicated that 15 people were killed and more than 60 were injured. The Railways Minister, Ashwini Vaishnaw, visited the site of the accident and announced compensation for the victims’ families and those injured.
How did it happen?
Investigations into the June 17th West Bengal train collision point to two main factors that likely caused the accident:
- Disregarded Signal: The primary cause appears to be human error. Investigators believe the driver of the goods train disregarded a red signal and struck the Kanchanjunga Express from behind.
- Missing Kavach System: Additionally, the Kanchanjunga Express was not equipped with the “Kavach” anti-collision system, which might have prevented the accident or lessened its impact.
What is the Kavach System?
Kavach, meaning “armor” in Hindi, is an indigenously developed Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system designed specifically for Indian Railways [Wikipedia, Kavach (train protection system)]. It acts like an electronic shield for trains, constantly monitoring situations to prevent collisions. Here’s how Kavach works:
- Network of Devices: Kavach is a combination of electronic devices and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags installed on locomotives, railway signals, and tracks.
- Communication and Monitoring: These devices use ultra-high radio frequencies to communicate with each other. The system continuously monitors train speeds, location, and upcoming signals.
- Alerts and Braking: If a locomotive driver misses a red signal (Signal Passed at Danger or SPAD) – a leading cause of train accidents – Kavach automatically alerts them of the danger.
- Automatic Braking: More importantly, Kavach can also apply the locomotive’s brakes automatically if it detects another train on the same track within a preset distance, bringing it to a halt and preventing a collision.
Benefits of Kavach:
- Prevents Collisions: Kavach’s automatic braking system can prevent train accidents caused by human error or signal passing.
- Improved Safety: This indigenously developed system aims to significantly improve railway safety in India.
- Cost-Effective: Kavach is reportedly much cheaper to operate compared to similar systems used worldwide.
Current Status of Kavach:
- Phased Implementation: Though promising, Kavach is still under phased implementation. The complexities of equipping all rolling stock, stations, and tracks require a gradual rollout.
- Integration Ongoing: As of June 2024, Kavach is being integrated with traffic management systems, electronic interlocking systems, and newer radio communication technologies for a more robust safety net.
While Kavach wasn’t present on the trains involved in the recent West Bengal accident, its wider implementation has the potential to significantly reduce train accidents in India.
History of Trains in India?
Early Proposals (1830s):
- The first proposals for railways in India emerged in Madras (now Chennai) around 1832.
Industrial Use (1837):
- The Red Hill Railway, considered India’s first train, began operating in 1837 near Madras. This steam-powered railway hauled laterite stones for construction purposes.
Passenger Trains Arrive (1853):
- A more significant turning point came in 1853. On April 16th, the first passenger train ran between Bori Bunder (Mumbai) and Thane, covering 34 kilometers. This train, operated by the Great Indian Peninsular Railway (GIPR), had three locomotives named Sahib, Sindh, and Sultan, pulling 14 carriages.
Network Expansion (1850s-1900s):
- The success of the first passenger train spurred rapid network expansion. By 1880, the network stretched around 14,500 kilometers, connecting major port cities like Bombay, Madras, and Calcutta (now Kolkata).
- The government played an increasing role, with the Railway Board established in 1901 and nationalization of major lines by 1923.
Technological Advancements (Early 1900s):
- The early 1900s witnessed technological advancements. The first electric train in India ran in Bombay in 1925, marking a shift from steam power.
Domestic Production (Mid-1900s):
- India took a significant step towards self-reliance by commissioning its first locomotive manufacturing unit at Chittaranjan in 1950, followed by a coach manufacturing unit in Madras (Chennai) in 1955.
Modernization and Growth (Late 1900s-Present):
- Steam locomotives were phased out by the 1990s, with electric and diesel locomotives taking over.
- Today, Indian Railways boasts a vast network, carrying millions of passengers and a significant amount of freight daily.
Train Accident Safty Guide:
While train accidents are uncommon, it’s always good to be prepared. Here are some tips on how to stay safe in case of a train accident:
Before an Accident:
- Be Aware of Surroundings: Pay attention to announcements and signage inside the train. Familiarize yourself with emergency exits located near your seat.
- Carry a Safety Kit (Optional): Consider packing a small bag with essential items like a whistle, flashlight, and basic first-aid supplies.
During an Accident:
- Brace Yourself: If you feel a sudden jolt or hear a loud crash, brace yourself by grabbing the nearest sturdy object like a seat handle or pole.
- Protect Your Head: If possible, take cover under a seat or table to shield yourself from falling debris.
- Stay Calm: Try to stay calm and assess the situation. If you’re injured, call for help or wait for assistance from emergency responders.
After an Accident:
- Evacuate Safely: Once the train has come to a complete stop and it’s safe to do so, follow instructions from train staff to evacuate.
- Use Designated Exits: Only use designated emergency exits, avoiding electrical wires or damaged tracks.
- Help Others: If you can safely do so, help those who are injured or need assistance evacuating.
- Move Away from Train: Once you’ve exited the train, move away from the tracks to a safe distance.
- Contact Authorities: Report the accident to a train staff member or call emergency services if needed.
Additional Tips:
- Wear Sturdy Shoes: This will help you navigate uneven terrain or debris if you need to evacuate.
- Mind the Gap: Be cautious of the gap between the train platform and the train car doors when entering or exiting.
Remember, the best way to stay safe is to be prepared and follow instructions from train staff during an emergency.
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