DISASTER MANAGEMENT STRATEGY ON RAILWAYS
The Ministry of Railways
has directed all the Zonal Railways and Divisions to prepare its
Disaster Management Plan.
The Disaster
Management Plan stipulates dovetailing it with State and District
Disaster Management Plan for a better integrated coordinated approach
between Indian Railways and State authorities in the event of
train accidents.
It envisages
deployment of three coach units Self-Propelled Accident Relief
Train in each Division. It also provides for a tie-up with reputed
private and civil hospitals and with State Governments for speedy
relief and assistance. Besides, rescue ambulances are proposed
to be positioned at hospitals in Divisions having good road network.
Air-lifting of needy and seriously injured passengers is also
under consideration. Added to this, Armed Forces will be approached
for assistance during disasters.
The Railways
are also considering feasibility of introducing emergency rail-cum-road
vehicle.
Under the Disaster
Management Plan, each Zone will have a professionally trained
crack team of rail rescue experts and containerized equipment
accident site by air or land route. Besides, feasibility of providing
road access to bridges, tunnels, high embankments and deep cuttings
will be worked out.
In addition,
two roof hatches and one under-floor hatch, for emergency escape
are to be provided in all coaches over and above the existing
four doors in each coach. Emergency automatic lights in coaches
would be provided.
Adequate financial
powers to Divisional Railway Managers and concerned branch officers
would be given to ensure quicker rescue operations.
Special Disaster
Management Team of Railway Protection Force (RPF) is to be set
up in each Division for providing support to relief and restoration.
Collapsible coffins
will be kept at each Divisional hospital for transportation to
the site of accident.
All Relief Trains
are to be provided with air brake stock. A minimum of one 140
tonne break down crane will be proved in each Division.
Disaster Management
Training Modules, with special focus on rescue, extrication, medical
relief and restoration techniques, are being launched at four
nominated training centres.
