Ahead of foggy days, Rlys takes measures for safe ops of trains

Ahead of foggy days when visibility plummets sharply in the night and morning hours, the Railways has taken several steps to increase the level of safety for smooth operation of trains during fog. Reliable fog safety devices have been provided to be used in the train engines by loco pilots.

Sanjay Sahu, Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), said the division took several steps to maintain punctuality of trains. Through the fog safety device, a loco pilot gets to know the status of the signals ahead, which helps control the speed of the trains.

In addition, signal location booklets have been provided to all loco pilots for information about signals. Despite this device, loco pilots follow all precautions. When visibility is restricted due to fog, the loco pilot carefully drives the train at a speed according to his discretion so that he can control the train. The whistle is blown repeatedly by the loco pilot to warn the gateman and road users at the level crossing.

Crackers have been provided to all railway employees related to security. Measures like LED based flasher tail behind Train Manager (Guard)’s coach, lime marking on tracks before signal, flashing sigma board on electric poles, flashing yellow signal strips on busy level crossings have been adopted, which are important steps from the security point of view. Reliable and uninterrupted power supply is being ensured for signalling equipment, flashing jackets, protective clothing, torch lights are being ensured for the safety of track maintenance staff.

There is always a possibility of railway tracks cracking in the winter. So keeping this in mind, night track patrolling has been started in and around the Amritsar railway station. Night patrolling is being done on various railway sections. During patrolling, two railway personnel go from both sides between two stations.

While checking the railway track, the patrolling personnel are equipped with GPS-based equipment and exchange the register by getting each other to sign on the patrolling register on the way and if any irregularity is noticed, they immediately report to the official concerned for immediate action.

For greater awareness and vigilance among operating and maintenance staff, night inspections are being carried out daily at the officer level and supervisor level. Ferozepur Division is committed to ensuring safe and secure train operations during fog.