By The Sampadak Express
The Railway Board has expressed significant concern over the 485 rail accidents reported across the Indian Railways network in the past 11 years, attributing these incidents primarily to human error within the Traffic Department. In a circular dated January 24, Hitendra Malhotra, the Member (Operations and Business Development) of the Railway Board, outlined key human-related factors behind these accidents and provided guidance on corrective measures to prevent future occurrences.
Human Error Leading to Accidents
Since 2014, human error has been a major contributing factor to these rail accidents, particularly in relation to improper procedures in railway operations. Among the most critical causes, the Railway Board identified 224 derailments, which were primarily due to the improper setting of points and routes. Other factors included failure by railway staff to observe essential safety protocols such as shunting rules, breaches of block rules, non-securing of rakes, and various oversights.
Shortcut Practices and Time Pressures
Malhotra highlighted that railway staff members were often resorting to shortcuts during shunting operations, driven by a desire to save time. He explained that while such shortcuts might temporarily seem effective in completing operations faster, when supervisors accepted these shortcuts, it developed into a dangerous habit among staff. This was particularly problematic, as it encouraged a culture of rushing through operations, which could lead to errors and accidents.
He also noted that such hasty practices were often rooted in the pressure to complete shunting tasks quickly, which in turn compromised safety. According to Malhotra, railway staff should not be pushed to conduct operations in a hurry, as it significantly increases the risk of mistakes.
Procedural Lapses and Their Consequences
The circular also pointed to serious procedural lapses that had contributed to derailments and even collisions. Malhotra specifically mentioned the failure to properly follow block rules, and the non-securing of rakes as significant factors in some of the accidents. In several cases, simple oversights, such as failure to remove wooden wedges or check loose couplings, resulted in preventable accidents.
Emphasis on Training and Awareness
To mitigate these human errors, the Railway Board has instructed the Principal Chief Operations Managers (PCOMs) of zonal railways to integrate accident case studies into the training modules for railway staff. Malhotra emphasized that a minimum of ten accident case studies must be discussed during every training session. Safety bulletins containing summaries of accidents caused by traffic-related errors should also be regularly circulated to ensure ongoing awareness.
In addition, Malhotra stressed the importance of implementing a robust communication system among all officials involved in train operations. This system would help ensure that all parties are aligned and informed of crucial operational procedures.
Addressing Language Barriers and Mental Health
The Railway Board also recognized the challenges posed by language barriers and stressed the need for multilingual support or visual cues where language could be an obstacle. Malhotra explained that understanding operational rules and procedures was far more important than simply having a counselling record, urging a greater focus on clarity and comprehension during training sessions.
Furthermore, regular counselling sessions were recommended for staff involved in train operations to help them manage fatigue, stress, and overall mental health. These sessions aim to improve performance and reduce the likelihood of errors caused by physical and mental exhaustion.
Creating a Culture of Error Management
Malhotra emphasized the need for a cultural shift within Indian Railways, urging officials to foster an environment where employees feel comfortable reporting mistakes or near-misses without fear of retaliation. This, he explained, would allow for timely course corrections, improving safety and operational efficiency. The Railway Board also directed that inspections be conducted at zonal and divisional training centers to ensure high standards of safety and operational excellence.
The Railway Board’s circular marks a decisive step towards addressing the human errors that have led to numerous rail accidents over the past decade. With enhanced training, improved communication, and a focus on safety procedures, Indian Railways aims to minimize the risk of future accidents and ensure safer operations across the network.
