Pakistan Railways Implements Strict Safety Measures After Recent Derailments
In a decisive move to bolster passenger safety and prevent accidents, Pakistan Railways' Engineering Branch has issued a comprehensive directive mandating mandatory fitness certification for all trains prior to departure. The order imposes a strict ban on the use of "dummy coaches" and requires that all braking systems be fully functional, marking a significant shift in operational protocols.
New Regulations for Train Operations
According to the official directive, authorities will no longer permit coaches with braking systems that are not 100 percent operational to be attached to any train. A formal order has been circulated, emphasizing strict compliance across all divisions. Under these new rules, no passenger train will be allowed to operate without a valid fitness certificate that confirms all systems, particularly the braking mechanisms, are in perfect working condition.
The instructions are clear: trains must not run unless these stringent conditions are met. The official letter explicitly states that no dummy coach or any wagon with defective braking can be included in any train rake passing through or departing from the Rawalpindi Division, setting a precedent for nationwide implementation.
Inspection and Enforcement Procedures
Divisional Mechanical Engineers (DME) have been directed to conduct thorough inspections of each individual coach and wagon, ensuring that braking performance meets the 100 percent standard. Any coach, engine, or wagon failing to satisfy this requirement must be immediately detached from the train. A fitness certificate will only be issued after complete verification of the braking system's performance, leaving no room for oversight.
The directive warns that any violation of these instructions will be considered a serious threat to passenger safety and will result in strict disciplinary action. This underscores the administration's commitment to enforcing these measures without exception.
Background: Recent Derailments Prompt Action
The authorities issued these instructions following a series of alarming incidents where three trains derailed within a single week, raising critical questions about existing safety protocols. On Friday, the Karachi-to-Islamabad Green Line Express derailed near Wazirabad while exiting the station. Initial investigations suggested that the derailment was caused by broken coach buffers, highlighting vulnerabilities in maintenance practices.
A day earlier, the Karachi-to-Lahore 41-Up Karakoram Express met with an accident near Khanewal Junction when the train split into two sections. As the train entered the loop line at Khanewal Junction, the coupling connecting its coaches suddenly broke, separating the moving train into two parts. These incidents have intensified scrutiny on railway safety standards and necessitated immediate corrective measures.
By implementing these rigorous checks and banning non-functional coaches, Pakistan Railways aims to restore public confidence and ensure a safer travel experience for all passengers. The focus on braking systems is particularly crucial, as they are fundamental to preventing accidents and maintaining operational integrity. This proactive approach reflects a broader effort to modernize and secure the nation's rail infrastructure against potential hazards.
