The officials overseeing the Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) have significantly ramped up their monitoring efforts to prevent accidents caused by human error during late-night operations. This move follows a serious incident on June 2, when two goods trains derailed between Sadhoogarh and Sirhind stations, leading to substantial damages and a financial loss exceeding Rs42 crore.
Over the past month, more than 30 goods trains have undergone rigorous inspections during nighttime hours. To bolster oversight, two dedicated teams have been established for the Haryana and Punjab sections, which fall under the Ambala unit of the freight corridor. These inspections aim to ensure that operational staff maintain high levels of alertness and adhere to safety protocols. The derailment highlighted several issues, including the negligence of the loco pilot, assistant loco pilot, and chief loco inspector. Preliminary investigations have identified several systemic failures, particularly with the vigilance control device installed in the locomotives. This device, intended to monitor driver alertness and automatically apply brakes if the driver falls asleep, reportedly failed to function correctly. Despite the driver’s apparent inattentiveness, the device continued to operate, prompting recommendations for its reinstallation and potential adjustments in the interlocking system.
The Chief General Manager of the Ambala unit of the Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL) addressed these concerns, emphasising that operations are conducted in strict adherence to established guidelines. While a preliminary report has been received, a comprehensive report detailing the full scope of the incident is still pending. In a proactive approach to enhance safety, DFCCIL has initiated a safety drive which includes surprise inspections and checks during late-night hours. These measures are designed to verify staff alertness and ensure compliance with safety standards. Officials are now conducting nightly inspections, either by engine or by road, and are equipped with breath analysers to monitor alcohol consumption among staff.
This intensified focus on safety reflects DFCCIL’s commitment to preventing future incidents and safeguarding the integrity of freight operations along the Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor. The implementation of these measures is anticipated to mitigate the risk of accidents and improve overall operational reliability.
