175 railway stations identified as vulnerable

New Delhi, May 3 (UNI) Stressing that the Government was concerned about the safety of the passengers, Minister of State for Railways R Velu today said 175 railway stations have been identified as vulnerable.

Replying during the question hour in Lok Sabha, Mr Velu said his Ministry has decided to set up close circuit televisions in these stations. The number of sniffer dogs and the strength of the bomb disposal squad had also been increased. People had been advised not to touch any unclaimed object and help the authorities by providing information on such items.

Responding to another question, he said the NorthEast Frontier Railway had an estimated 7036 km of rail route network and the Ministry had made a preliminary study for the deployment of the Anti Collision Device (ACD) system. Initially, it would be carried out on a pilot project basis.

He said the ACD would help in the reduction of collisions to the extent of 60 per cent. Signalling and interlocking systems would be renewed and flaw detection system and maintenance practices modernised.

Fire accidents would be reduced by adoption of fireproof coaches and use of fire retarding materials in the existing coaches.

Responding to another question, Mr Velu said the ministry was approving the construction of Railway Over Bridge (ROB) where there was a general demand.

The Railways were aiming at reduction in fatalities in case of serious accidents by use of Crash Worthy Coaches and tight lock couplers with anti-climbing features.

The Ministry has prepared a comprehensive Corporate Safety Plan and presented it before both Houses of Parliament in August 2003 which states the objects, targets and strategies the Indian Railways aimed to achieve between 2003-2013.

He said the plan also aimed at reduction in overall train accidents.

The document encompasses the broad priorities and time frame of the safety related works.

Efforts are being made for continuous reduction in risk level to railway customers by way of enhancement of asset reliability by their rehabilitation and modernisation, along with induction of appropriate technology for prevention and mitigation of train accidents, Mr Velu added.

UNI