Question : Cancellation of Trains due to Fog

(a) the details of the trains which have been cancelled due to fog this year in the country and the loss of revenue incurred by the Railways as a result thereof;

(b) whether any strategy has been prepared to combat the problem of delay of trains due to fog and if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether any new technology is being developed or is in operation to reduce the dangers of delay and accidents due to fog;

(d) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor; and

(e) the other steps taken/proposed to be taken by the Government to ensure that the trains run on time during the winter season?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS
(SHRI RAJEN GOHAIN)
(a) With a view to managing the operational bottlenecks during foggy weather, Indian Railways had cancelled 3713 services of Mail Express trains (approx. 41 train services per day) from 17th December 2016 to 28th February 2017 including planned cancellation of 28 pairs of Mail Express trains, frequency reduction of 14 pairs of Mail Express trains. Also day to day operational need based cancellations were done due to abnormal delays in train running in fog affected areas from December 2016 to February 2017.
(b) to (e) Yes, Madam. For smooth and safe movement of trains in fog, the following action has been taken:
(i) Smooth and safe running in fog is ensured by modifying the automatic signaling to increase separation distance between trains.
(ii) The specifications of Train Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) under field trials incorporate cab signaling to provide adequate visibility to loco pilots.
(iii) Train Protection and warning system (TPWS) is one of new technology for safe and timely running of trains which is based on proven European Train Control System (ETCS) technology. TPWS is already functional over 342 route kms on Indian Railways. Further, TPWS works have been sanctioned on 3330 route kms.
(iv) A Global Positioning System (GPS) based ‘Fog PASS device’ has been developed which displays the name and distance of approaching signals and other critical landmarks like Un-manned level crossings etc. in advance during poor visibility condition. It is expected to help reduce stress on Loco Pilots while running in foggy weather. These fog safe devices with audio indication about location of signal are being provided in locos in phased manner.
(v) ‘Trinetra’ technology for improved visibility during foggy weather conditions is also under development.

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