sabarmati-agra-superfast-express-train-derailment-probe-says-locopilot-overshot-red-signal

A preliminary investigation into the derailment of the Sabarmati-Agra Superfast Express near Ajmer indicates that the locomotive pilot overshot a red signal, resulting in a collision with two rear wagons of a freight train.

 

The incident occurred on Monday, causing four coaches of the passenger train bound for Agra to derail near the Ajmer station. Fortunately, there were no reported casualties.

 

According to the joint probe report signed by seven experts, the Sabarmati-Agra Superfast Express departed from Ajmer at 00:50 and approached Madar station. The locomotive pilot overshot the red signal, causing the collision with the rear wagons of a passing freight train at an intersection.

 

The impact caused four coaches and the engine of the passenger train to derail, disrupting train operations for several hours in both directions. Despite the collision occurring at a speed of 50 km per hour, no injuries were reported.

 

In his statement, the locomotive pilot admitted that before reaching Madar station, he observed the first signal in double yellow position and the second in single yellow. Upon seeing the third signal turn red, he applied emergency brakes. However, the train collided with the rear of the freight train before it could stop.

 

Experts noted that standard procedure requires the locomotive pilot to apply brakes upon encountering the first signal in a double yellow position, indicating an obstruction ahead. Subsequent signals would remain yellow and then turn red.

 

One retired locomotive pilot explained that while the locomotive pilot acknowledged seeing the first signal in double yellow, he did not clarify why brakes were not applied at that point. He added that overshooting red signals, also known as Signal Passed At Danger (SPAD), can occur due to various factors such as fatigue, distraction, or personal issues affecting the driver's focus.

 

Despite the assistant locomotive pilot's role in alerting the main pilot, SPAD incidents can still occur due to lapses in attention. The investigation into this incident is ongoing.