The Safety Commissioner has raised concerns regarding the
operational safety of the high-speed Vande Bharat Express. In a detailed report submitted to the Ministry of Railways, the
Commissioner highlighted that a collision with a cow could be enough to derail
the train, given its lighter weight and design. The Vande Bharat, which is capable of reaching
speeds up to 160 kmph, is at risk of derailment. Unlike conventional express
trains that have a heavy locomotive engine at the front, the Vande Bharat
operates as a self-propelled unit. The
absence of a leading engine makes it more vulnerable to derailment upon impact,
the report noted.
Responding to the
concerns, officials from Southern Railway stated that the Ministry had already
taken preventive measures when launching the Vande Bharat services. One of the
major steps included plans to build concrete fencing on either side of the
railway tracks. Several zones across the country
have started implementing this directive, and approximately 3,000 kilometres of
concrete fencing have been completed so far.
The officials also
pointed out that the Vande Bharat is equipped with the KAVACH system, which is
an automatic train protection system designed to enhance safety. Meanwhile,
Southern Railway is evaluating potential routes for operating a
third Vande Bharat Express in Kerala. Authorities are also considering the possibility of running Vande Bharat
trains with chair car coaches from other states to Kerala. Presently, Vande Bharat trains in Kerala are witnessing substantial
passenger demand during both morning and evening hours.
Authorities are examining ways to introduce new services
without affecting the schedules of the existing trains.