Opinion - Letters to the Editor   

Safety derailed

Sir, — Your Editorial "Safety derailed" ( July 5 ) has rightly underscored the urgent need to ensure transparency and accountability by making public the reports of the Safety Commissioners besides initiating follow-up action on its findings or recommendations.

It is a tragedy that derailment is the common factor in almost all the accidents, pointing to the grey areas of track maintenance and round-the-clock patrolling.

The Railways should prioritise their areas of focussed approach and utilise the special safety funds to minimise accidents and maximise the safety aspects.

P.K. Varadarajan,
Chennai

Sir, — Your Editorial says: "When the authorities know that derailment and human failure are the main culprits, they have to pay more attention to these problems." But nothing of this sort has been done.

I believe that the appointment of a large number of railway employees earlier on considerations other than merit is responsible for the rail accidents.

It should be remembered that there is no substitute to sincerity, training, competence and experience.

Vidya Sagar,
New Delhi

Sir, — It will not be an exaggeration to say that not a single day passes without a rail accident somewhere in the country.

Among the various measures suggested in your Editorial, you have rightly mentioned the need for continuous monitoring of health and habits of the engine crew, the station staff and those patrolling the tracks or manning the level-crossing.

Spending crores of rupees under the special safety fund may improve the infrastructure of the Railways but it will not contribute to the overall personal development of the running staff. They should be free from the influence of alcohol while on duty. It is here that regular yoga and meditation classes may be useful for them.

This will enhance their mental alertness and help them act with presence of mind to tackle any critical situation.

S. Nallasivan,
Tirunelveli, T.N.

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