Mechanism to Alert Train Drivers on Unmanned Crossings Soon: PM Modi

NEW DELHI: A mechanism to alert train drivers about unmanned railway crossings on the pattern of planes will be launched soon, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said today.

He said the technology has been devised by engineers of Varanasi-based diesel locomotive factory on his advice.

"There are many solutions to unmanned crossing. Can satellite be a thing for unmanned crossing," Mr Modi said addressing a gathering of scientists.

Recalling his visit to the loco shed in Varanasi, he said he had suggested to the engineers to devise a technology to alert engine drivers about level crossings.

The technology will be rolled out soon, the Prime Minister said, adding that it will be on the pattern of planes in which a pilot gets advance information about clouds etc.

Unmanned crossings account for many accidents in which lots of lives are lost every year.

Emphasising that "no space" should be left in using space technology for the benefit of the common man, he exhorted the scientific fraternity to evolve innovative solutions to aid governance.

Addressing a national meet of top officials of different ministries and state governments on use of space applications in daily governance, he pressed the need for new initiatives in all areas of governance, using space technology applications.

He asked all the departments to set up dedicated cells to promote innovations and identify issues which can be resolved through space technology.

Mr Modi called upon all ministries to identify at least one space application in their work within the calendar year 2015.

"Our aim should be to ensure that affordable technology reaches out to poorest of the poor of the society.

"For good governance, transparency, efficiency, accountability, real-time delivery, real-time monitoring technology is the most potent tool," Mr Modi said.