Safety in trains more important

‘Safety in trains & passenger amenities most important’

Shishir Tripathi : Chandigarh, Tue Aug 06 2013,

Safety in train operations and passenger amenities will be the focus area for A K Kathpal, the new DRM, Ambala Division. Talking to Newsline Kathpal said, while introduction of the new trains and other facilities is important, passenger safety by ensuring safe and smooth operation of trains is most vital.

Citing a recent incident that took place in Ambala yard where two wagons loaded with cement was derailed that led to the blockage of Ludhiana-Kalka link, Kathpal said, "My priority is the safety of rail operations because I find there is lacuna in it. Even small incidents will be analysed and investigated."
Kathpal added, "An incident can be triggered by system managerial, human or equipment failure, but we need to know the exact reason. We also have to ensure that an incident is not repeated and does not lead to something big."
Admitting that services at some stations are not adequate, he said, "Officers do a lot of inspection but we will focus on the quality of inspection and not quantity. We will ensure that all issues are resolved at the earliest."
Kathpal said a separate cell has been created to ensure complacence. "I have created separate folders highlighting the major issues and anybody who does not comply with it will be taken care of."
Review of sanctioned work will be his next priority. Talking about the impending work he said, "Fund constrain is always the main reason for delay in the work. Also as the year starts, we focus on sanction for new work rather than making sure that the projects already sanctioned is completed on time."
Kathpal said the work for installation of escalators and extension of the ongoing foot over bridge at the station will take more time as there are some contractual issues that need to be resolved. However, ceiling installation work at the platforms will be completed in a month.