World Bank: Safety Measures for Indian Railways

New Delhi, Sept 2: An advice was given recently. World Bank has made some suggestions to Indian Railways for improving the safety of passengers they are

* Trains must be painted with Yellow color.

* Have a fire extinguisher on every train.

* Ensure high-visibility clothing for employees.

* Provide four-hour weekly maintenance blocks on all main lines.

* Install ditch lights — safety feature in the front of the train.

* Add side markings to equipment to prevent level-crossing collisions.

* Ensure that footwear and helmets chosen by employees with their allowance are appropriate for their activities.

* Slew of technical actions can also be taken.

* Establish an emergency response plan to address derailments, fires, or any other eventuality.

* Create an independent rail safety regulator

The above suggestions were made by the World Bank in a report Titled 'Strengthening Safety on Indian Railways'. The suggestions assume significance because recently there are growing instances of train accidents taking place and the Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu has offered to Resign but PM has put his resignation on hold.

World Bank has suggested that painting the trains with Yellow will ensure that visibility is improved especially during twilight hours. Earlier the Railway Minister has approached World Bank for giving suggestions to improve railway safety in April.