Coromandel Train Accident: The change in electronic interlocking is believed to be the reason for the painful train accident on Friday (June 2) in Balasore, Odisha. On Sunday (June 4), Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav and Railway Board gave information about this. The Railway Minister said that the reason for the accident is related to the point machine and electronic interlocking system required for the signal. He said that the change in electronic interlocking has been identified.
At the same time, Railway Board member Jaya Verma Sinha said that the accident happened due to a problem in signaling. He described the electronic interlocking as tamper proof. However, he said that this is a type of machine, so there is a margin of error of .01 per cent (failure). After all, what is electronic interlocking, let’s understand.
What is electronic interlocking?
- Electronic interlocking is a simple system of signal mechanism. It effectively manages the arrangement of tracks to prevent conflicting movements between trains.
- Its primary purpose is to ensure the safety of train operation by preventing signals from being changed in an improper sequence.
- The basic purpose of this system is to stop the signal given for the train to move forward until it is confirmed that the route is completely safe.
- Electronic interlocking reduces the risk of potential accidents and collisions while increasing the overall safety and efficiency of railway operations.
- This system uses electronic control systems and computers to monitor and control the movement of trains.
- The electronic interlocking system replaces the traditional ‘mechanical interlocking system’. In traditional mechanical interlocking systems, physical levers and rods are used to control signals and switches.
- Electronic interlocking has several advantages, including increased reliability, faster response and greater flexibility in managing train movements.
- Electronic interlocking systems use sensors and feedback devices to detect the presence and location of trains on the tracks.
- The interlocking system integrates with various other systems like train detection system, signals, points (switches) and track circuits to ensure safe operation of trains.
- Overall, electronic interlocking is a safety system that prevents conflicting movement between trains by controlling signals and tracks.
At around 7 pm on Friday evening, near Bahanga Bazar railway station in Balasore, Odisha, a terrible accident took place when the Coromandel Express went to the loop line instead of the main line. The Coromandel Express collided with a goods train standing in the loop line, in which the Bengaluru-Howrah Superfast Express also came under its grip. 275 people lost their lives due to this accident. However, earlier it was told that 288 people died. The Chief Secretary of Odisha made it clear on Sunday that the figure of those who lost their lives is 275. More than one thousand people have been injured in the accident.
Read this also- Odisha Train Accident: Not 288, 275 people lost their lives in Odisha train accident, know how this mistake happened
