Electronic Signalling Error Revealed As Cause Of Train Derailment In India

A senior railway official in India has stated that an error in the electronic signalling system caused the derailment of trains in eastern India, resulting in the deaths of at least 288 people and over 800 injuries.

Jaya Verma Sinha, the official, on Sunday explained that a signal initially directed the high-speed Coromandel Express to run on the main track, but later changed, causing the train to enter an adjacent loop line where it collided with a freight train carrying iron ore.

The collision caused the coaches of the Coromandel Express to flip onto another track, leading to a further derailment when the incoming Yesvantpur-Howrah Superfast Express collided with the wreckage.

While the investigation into the train derailment is ongoing, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw hinted at the possibility of human error playing a role in the accident.

The electronic interlocking system, which is designed to prevent conflicting movements between trains, is being examined closely to determine the cause of the error.

The system monitors signals, train proximity, and the presence of stationary trains on the track to ensure safe operations.

However, even with a high degree of reliability, there is always a small chance for errors to occur.

Authorities have not ruled out sabotage as a potential factor in the derailment.