In a decisive move by the Northern Railways, the Station Master at Kathua was terminated from his duties following a critical investigation into a recent incident where a driverless freight train journeyed approximately 70 kilometres towards Punjab’s Ucchi Bassi at speeds ranging between 70 to 75 kmph. This incident, which took place last month, highlighted serious lapses in operational protocols.
The official reason cited for the dismissal was "negligence," with the investigative report pointing to the potential for a "major incident" that could have resulted in significant loss of life. This action comes in the wake of a similar measure taken against the train's loco-pilot, who was also removed from duty for related reasons on February 29, as per the findings dated February 29.
Both the loco-pilot and the now-former Station Master, Triveni Lal Gupta, were relieved of their responsibilities by the disciplinary authority of the Firozpur division, effective immediately from the date of the incident, February 25. The disciplinary notices highlighted failures in adhering to standard operational procedures and the neglect of safety practices.
Investigations into the incident revealed that the loco-pilot did not fully engage the engine and wagon brakes to secure the train, while Gupta disregarded standard operating protocols, failing to ensure the train was properly secured. Railway protocols dictate that after a loco-pilot prepares an engine for standstill, the station master is responsible for verifying the setup and securing the engine to prevent any unintended movement.
Both individuals implicated in this incident have been given the opportunity to appeal the disciplinary actions against them within 45 days from the receipt of their respective orders.
The incident, initially investigated as involving a Divisional Material Train (DMT) loaded with 53 wagons but lacking a brake van, unfolded when the Station Master was instructed to have the train moved to Jammu. However, the driver refused due to the absence of a guard's carriage and a guard. Following the driver's departure for Jammu, after handing over the keys to the Station Master, the train was left unattended, eventually moving on its own due to the track's downhill gradient.
The investigation underscored the Station Master's failure to provide written permission for the loco-pilot to leave the train unattended and noted the absence of necessary entries in the load stabilisation record by the loco-pilot, revealing significant procedural lapses leading to the train's unintended journey.
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