Acknowledging rising train accidents, govt introduces 'Rail Raksha Dal', to reach site and initiate rescue efforts
Amid the increasing number of train accidents across the country, Indian Railways has, for the first time, established a Rail Rakshak Dal. As part of a pilot project, Indian Railways has launched this initiative in the North Western Railway (NWR) zone. Rail Rakshak Dal is capable of reaching the accident site promptly and conducting rescue operations.
The Indian Railways has introduced the "Rail Rakshak Dal," a dedicated quick response team designed to manage train accident rescues and disaster situations. This initiative, a first for Indian Railways, involves personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Railway Protection Force (RPF), and the Mechanical (Carriage and Wagon) department, who have received specialized training in Vadodara. These teams are equipped with disaster management tools and vehicles for swift deployment.
In response to the rising incidents of train accidents, the Railway Board formed a committee in November 2023 to expedite evacuation processes and improve disaster management capabilities. This committee, led by North Western Railway (NWR) and supported by other key railway bodies, studied disaster plans from organizations such as Delhi Metro and the National Capital Region Transport Corporation. Following their recommendations, the Railway Board directed NWR to establish road rescue teams consisting of RPF and Mechanical staff, equipped with necessary tools and vehicles.
The Rail Rakshak Dal, positioned at key locations such as Bandikui (Jaipur Division), Merta Road (Jodhpur Division), Lalgarh (Bikaner Division), and Udaipur (Ajmer Division), officially began operations on August 15, 2023, as part of a three-year pilot project. Each team, consisting of five RPF personnel and one Mechanical staff member, received extensive on-the-job training and equipment handling sessions, including a four-week program at NDRF in Vadodara.
These rescue teams are now actively engaged in drills, route planning, and coordination with local authorities to ensure rapid and effective responses to train accidents. They operate under the control of the RPF and are also available to assist state governments when necessary. The Rail Rakshak Dal represents a significant step in enhancing disaster management and safety protocols within the Indian Railways.
As the initiative gains traction, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has also inspected the new Kavach 4.0 system and issued a stern warning to those attempting to sabotage railway operations.