ACCIDENTS AT RAILWAY CROSSINGS

ACCIDENTS AT RAILAY LEVEL CROSSINGS.

 

The other day there was a terribly shocking accident in Telegana , killing 25 school children at an unmanned level crossing, as reported by the media.  Such fatal accident caused due to the carelessness of the driver is inexcusable. (In this case the driver was also killed).

The right of way is for the trains and the road users must obey the traffic rules while crossing the railway track at level crossings.

The instructions are very clear.. The transport vehicles while approaching the unmanned railway crossing must stop short of the crossing and the conductor or helper must get down and pilot the vehicle after ensuring that no train is in the vicinity. Till the vehicle is clear of the track the person piloting the vehicle must continue to watch for the trains if any approaching..

The recent accident is reported by the media as “Train hits the school bus”. It is not true.. “School bus hits the rain “is the correct way of reporting, which shows the factual situation at the time of accident. Train do have regular time table and the local people know about the running of trains in that section. Therefore the drivers must be alert while approaching the unmanned level crossings and follow the procedure mentioned above.. The Railways also to ensure more safer methods such as manning the crossing or constructing ROB/RUBs wherever required, to GUARD against the overenthusiastic and speedy driving HABIT of the  drivers of road vehicles ..

 The principal and school managers must counsel the drivers of the school buses very often to follow safety driving habits while carrying children to school and back..

Abraham Mangalath