In 2024-25, Indian Railways faced significant challenges with train accidents, the majority of which were derailments. A total of 31 major train accidents occurred, resulting in a loss of approximately Rs 157 crore. These accidents included derailments, collisions, fires, and errors at level crossings. These incidents caused disruptions, injuries, and, tragically, fatalities.

Prevalence of Derailments

Derailments constituted a significant portion of these accidents. According to a report, derailments accounted for around 75% of the total consequential accidents between 2017-18 and 2020-21. This highlights a persistent issue with track maintenance, infrastructure, and possibly other factors that lead to trains leaving the rails.

Specific Accidents in 2024

Several notable train accidents occurred throughout 2024:

• February 28, 2024: The Jamtara train accident occurred.
• March 29, 2024: Six wagons of a goods train derailed at Palghar yard in Maharashtra, disrupting rail traffic and leading to the cancellation of 53 trains.
• June 17, 2024: The Kanchanjunga Express accident in West Bengal resulted in 10 deaths and at least 60 injuries after a freight train collided with the rear of the express train.
• July 18, 2024: Twelve coaches of the Dibrugarh–Chandigarh Express derailed in Uttar Pradesh, causing at least four deaths and 32 injuries.
• October 11, 2024: The Mysuru-Darbhanga Bagmati Express derailed in Tamil Nadu after colliding with a stationary goods train, injuring at least 19 people.
• October 31, 2024: A wagon of a goods train derailed in Assam's Maligaon area.
• November 13, 2024: Eleven wagons of a goods train derailed in Telangana, leading to the cancellation of several passenger trains.

Financial Implications

The financial impact of these accidents is substantial. In 2022-23, the cost of damage to rolling stock was approximately Rs. 55.70 crores, and the estimated cost of damage to permanent way (railway tracks) was Rs. 3.85 crores. Besides the direct costs of repair and replacement, accidents also lead to disruptions in rail traffic, causing delays and impacting economic activity. Indian Railways disbursed ₹32 crore in compensation from 2019-20 to 2023-24, with ₹26.83 crore to the families of those killed and ₹7 crore to those injured.

Factors Contributing to Accidents

Several factors contribute to train accidents in India:

• Human Error: A significant percentage of accidents are attributed to human error, including railway staff failures, driver fatigue, insufficient training, and negligence.
• Infrastructure Issues: Poor track maintenance and outdated infrastructure are major causes of derailments.
• Equipment Failure: Failures in signaling systems and communication breakdowns among railway staff also contribute to accidents.

Measures to Enhance Rail Safety

To address these challenges, several measures can be taken:

• Increased Investment in Infrastructure: Greater capital expenditure is needed for track renewal and maintenance.
• Improved Safety Technology: Implementation of the "Kavach" automatic train protection system should be expedited.
• Workforce Planning and Training: Filling vacancies in safety-related positions and providing better training to staff are crucial.
• Addressing Human Factors: Better scheduling and working conditions for locomotive pilots can help minimize human error.

While the number of train accidents has decreased over the decades, the recent incidents and the associated financial losses highlight the need for continuous efforts to improve rail safety in India. By addressing the underlying causes of accidents and implementing comprehensive safety measures, Indian Railways can ensure safer travel for passengers and reduce economic losses.