Probe hints at human error behind UP train derailment
GROSS NEGLIGENCE Traffic controller ignored repeated requests and refused to block movement of trains despite repair work on tracks, say investigators
The Utkal Express accident occurred here on Saturday due to gross negligence and human error, preliminary investigation by the commissioner of railway safety (CRS) (Northern Circle) Shailesh Kumar Pathak indicated.
The preliminary probe revealed that the permanent way inspector (PWI) , also known as traffic controller, refused to block movement of trains on the track in question despite repeated requests by the Khatauli station master Rajendra Singh in view of the ongoing repair work, Pathak told reporters at the Khatauli railway station on Monday.
Pathak began his probe on Monday and inspected the derailment site with a team of officials.
The CRS faced opposition during his inspection of the track and locals blamed negligence of railway staff for the accident and the deaths of passengers.
Talking to journalists, Pathak said the PWI refused to accept the station master’s plea, saying two or three trains were already on hold and he could not delay them.
Pathak said prima facie it seemed a gross violation of rules and asked how one could allow trains to pass on faulty tracks.
“There could have been many ways to control the situation but these were not taken into compliance,” he said.
The commissioner said the final report would be prepared after recording statements of more people and on the basis of the available evidence.
As per the railway rules, he has to submit the report within a month. But he clarified, “I can also submit it before then.”
He admitted receiving two audio clips of a conversation between the station master and the traffic controller regarding the demand to block the tracks.
He said the audio clips could be treated as evidence only after a certified testing lab established their authenticity.
The commissioner said over 60% accidents occurred due to human error.
Referring to stern action initiated against railway officials after the accident, he said the railways can’t compromise on the safety of passengers.
Train traffic in Khatauli was restored after the repair of damaged track on Monday, railway officials said.
Cranes were used to remove the bogies after which new tracks were laid under the supervision of general manager of Delhi division RK Kulshreshtha, divisional rail manager RN Singh and other officials.
A goods train was the first to pass the track at 12.37 am after which Ambala-Meerut passenger train passed Khatauli at 1.30 am.
After these trains passed, the Railway authorities were assured about the stability of the track and the route was opened for all the trains.
Earlier, Kulshreshtha had claimed that the tracks would be repaired in record time and appreciated the efforts of the officials and workers.
Repair work of tracks, electric lines and signals is still underway and trains are being allowed to move on the track at a very slow speed. S RAJU