Indian Railways has reported a steep decline in consequential train accidents and has linked the improvement to sustained safety expenditure, signalling upgrades, track modernisation, and rolling-stock improvements. The same reply also gives the latest status of Kavach, the indigenous Automatic Train Protection system, which is being expanded on major trunk routes.

What happened now

According to the Ministry of Railways, consequential train accidents have fallen sharply over time. The reply also says that the Consequential Accident Index has improved, indicating fewer accidents relative to train-kilometres operated. The railway ministry attributes the improvement to measures covering signalling, track, bridges, coaches, wagon maintenance, staff training, and fog safety.

Background and earlier position

Railway accidents in India traditionally arise from track defects, locomotive or coach defects, equipment failures, and human error. The Ministry of Railways says that the safety focus has been strengthened through interlocking systems, track circuiting, replacement of older coach designs, elimination of unmanned level crossings on broad gauge routes, and better inspection and maintenance systems.

Key facts for Prelims

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