Despite multiple fog-related accidents being reported from time to time, the Indian railways has remained somewhat hesitant to install a GPS-driven anti-fog system for quite a long time. As per railway authorities, the benefit-cost ratio was never convincing at all.
The entire system, combined with the installation of safety-enhancing devices and overhauling of the signaling system, will cost the railways more than Rs. 2000 crore. The baffling figure is a little too much for the cash-strapped Indian railways.
Fog in India is majorly limited to the northern and eastern states. This is about 1/4th of the total operational area of Indian railways. Officials argue that the system will be used only once a year, and that too just for a month. As of now, it comes across as a not so fruitful investment.
Despite all this, railways has now started installing anti-fog devices in a few trains. Recently, an announcement stated that trains running in the Kumaon division of Uttarakhand will be fitted with domestic anti-fog devices. 32 such devices are being procured for the region.
These devices weigh about 1.5 kg and can track the location of the next signal in real time. The device works with the help of sensors and digital display boards installed inside the engine will provide a clearer picture.
Fog is known to cause delays, cancellations, and even accidents. Anti-fog devices can help in reducing casualties and improving overall efficiency. However, even after years of discussions and analysis, Indian railways is yet to work towards installing a full-fledged GPS-driven anti-fog system on its northern and eastern routes.
(Featured Image Credit: indiatoday.in)
