n June 2, 290 people died in India after a passenger train derailed and hit two others. Initial investigation blamed signal failure for the accident in Balasoredistrict in Odisha state.

Pakistan Railway has also witnessed some serious accidents over the past decade. There are a number of lessons to be learnt from the tragic incident.

During the British Raj, the subcontinent was provided the broad gauge (5feet, 6 inches) track to cater to its special land features. Post-1947,Pakistan Railways inherited around 11,881kilometers of track. In most places, the track has never been changed to standard or narrow gauge.

The recent accident in India bears striking resemblance to the 2005 Ghotki train disaster. At least 130 people were killed and about 170 were injured when three passenger trains collided at the Sarhad Railway Station, near Sukkur.

Such incidents should be an eye-opener for railway managers in both countries. They must build enough safeguards in the system to make it fault resilient.

Pakistan Railway has seven divisions:i.e, Quetta, Karachi, Sukkur, Multan, Lahore, Rawalpindi and Peshawar.Each division is individually responsible for safe train operations in their jurisdiction. The divisional level officers need thorough collaboration and reliable communication with the subordinate staff at stations, gates, signals, tracks and in offices to avoid accidents.

For safe operations, trains should undergo routine maintenance and inspections to identify and address any mechanical issue or potential safety hazard. This includes checking the tracks,signals, braking systems and other components of the train.Train operators and other staff should receive proper training to handle the operation and emergency procedures. They should be well-versed in safety protocols, evacuation techniques and communication procedures to ensure safety of passengers in case of an accident.

Advanced safety systems such as Automatic Train Control (ATC), Positive Train Control (PTC) and Automatic Braking systems can be installed to prevent collisions, over-speeding and operational errors. These systems can help maintain a safe distance between trains and provide additional protection against human error.

Modern signalling system such as Centralised Traffic Control and Computer-based Interlocking help ensure safe movement of trains by providing clear signals, track occupancy information and speed limit to the train operators.

Advanced safety systems such as Automatic Train Control (ATC), Positive Train Control (PTC) and Automatic Braking systems can be installed to prevent collisions, over-speeding and other operational errors. These systems can help maintain safe distances between trains and provide additional protection against human error.

Adequate safety measures should be implemented at gate crossings to prevent accidents involving vehicles and pedestrians. This includes installing warning signs, flashing lights, gates and audible alarms to alert road users about approaching trains.

Regular inspection and maintenance of tracks, bridges, tunnels and other infrastructure are essential to ensure their structural integrity and prevent accidents caused by failures and collapses.

Passengers should be educated about safety procedures and emergency protocols. This includes providing clear instructions on how to board and disembark safely, locate emergency exits and respond to emergency situations.

Strict enforcement of safety regulations and penalties for non-compliance can encourage operators; staff and maintenance crew who prioritise safety and follow established protocols.

A clear and reliable communication system, both within the train and between the train and control centre,is crucial for timely reporting of issues, coordinating responses and providing updates during emergencies.

Regular monitoring analysis of safety data and incorporating lessons from past incidents can help identify potential risk and improve safety measures. Drivers, assistant drivers and safety crew should use a hotline, train panels or other communication channels on same page for maintaining and determining the safe braking distance. Human override of electronic systems should be kept to a minimum. Censors on tracks should complement the cross-circuiting to maintain strict monitoring.

All the systems should work independently and there should be no room for human interference. Failure of a safety gadget should not cripple the entire train operation.

The Ghotki incidenthad occurred due to a lack of communication and insufficient braking power. All the departmentsi.e, mechanical, civil, signals, telecom, commercial andtransportation, electrical should coordinate for smooth working and efficient train operation.

There is a dire need to upgrade the standards of courses at the Railway Ac ademy. Officers/ officials should be sent abroad to receive training to keepup with the new techniques and trends in train operations. Despite funding shortages, the government shouldupgrade rolling stock and infrastructure.

The writer is a divisional transportation managerof Pakistan Railway.