Rail safety has always been a matter of concern in India, with frequent accidents and fatalities casting a shadow over the nation’s railways. While the Congress has been critical of the current government’s efforts, it is essential to look at the track record of previous administrations to make an informed judgment. The Modi government, in particular, has made significant strides in improving rail safety. However, the Congress should first reflect on its own record when it comes to railway accidents, as the statistics reveal a stark contrast between the two periods. From outdated infrastructure and poor safety measures under past administrations to cutting-edge innovations today, the difference is clear.
When comparing the rail safety records of past governments to the present Modi administration, it becomes evident that the latter has implemented various transformative steps to reduce accidents and fatalities. The statistics from different periods show the significant improvements in safety under the current government.
Track Record Under Previous Governments
Lalu Prasad (2005-06): Under the leadership of Lalu Prasad, the railway network witnessed 234 accidents, with 315 lives lost and 627 injuries reported. Despite the railway ministry being under his charge, the safety measures were insufficient, resulting in frequent accidents and a high toll on human lives.
Mamata Banerjee (2009-10): Mamata Banerjee, during her tenure, oversaw 165 accidents, which resulted in 238 fatalities and 397 injuries. Although there was a decrease in accidents compared to Lalu’s term, the numbers were still significant, highlighting the need for more effective safety measures.
Mallikarjun Kharge (2013-14): Mallikarjun Kharge’s term saw 118 accidents with 125 fatalities and 234 injuries. While there was an improvement compared to the previous terms, the railway system was still vulnerable to accidents, underscoring the need for more investments in rail infrastructure and safety.
Modi Government’s Safety Record
NDA Government (2014-2025): Under the NDA government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, railway safety has drastically improved. On average, there were 63.5 accidents per year between 2014 and 2025, a sharp decline compared to the previous governments. This resulted in only 68 deaths and 190 injuries annually, demonstrating the effectiveness of modernising railway infrastructure and safety practices.
Steps Taken by the Modi Government to Enhance Rail Safety
Kavach Collision Avoidance System
The introduction of the Kavach system, which is designed to prevent train collisions, has played a significant role in enhancing rail safety. The system can automatically stop trains if they are on a collision course, greatly reducing the risk of accidents.
Modernising Tracks and Signaling
The Modi government has invested heavily in upgrading tracks and modernising signalling systems across the railway network. This has not only improved safety but also efficiency, reducing delays and ensuring smoother train operations.
Elimination of Unmanned Level Crossings
One of the key reforms has been the elimination of unmanned level crossings, which were often the site of fatal accidents. The government has taken proactive steps to remove these crossings and install safer alternatives.
Introduction of LHB Coaches for Crash Resistance
The introduction of LHB (Linke Hofmann Busch) coaches, which are more resistant to crashes, has significantly reduced the severity of accidents when they do occur. These coaches are designed to ensure passenger safety during collisions.
Creation of a Rs 1 Lakh Crore Safety Fund (RRSK)
The Modi government established the Rs 1 lakh crore Safety Fund (RRSK) aimed at upgrading the infrastructure of the Indian Railways. This fund has been used to modernize railway stations, tracks, and signalling and improve overall safety measures.
Use of Drones, AI, and Fire Safety
Drones, artificial intelligence, and enhanced fire safety measures have been deployed to monitor tracks, predict maintenance needs, and prevent accidents. These technologies play a key role in ensuring real-time safety management and quick responses to potential hazards.
Improved Training for Railway Staff
In addition to technological advancements, the government has prioritised better training for railway staff, ensuring they are equipped to handle emergencies and prevent accidents.
While the Congress has often criticised the Modi government’s rail safety initiatives, a closer look at the facts reveals that significant improvements have been made in reducing accidents and fatalities under the current administration. The previous governments, particularly under Lalu Prasad, Mamata Banerjee, and Mallikarjun Kharge, were marked by a much higher number of accidents, fatalities, and injuries. In contrast, the Modi government’s commitment to rail safety, through modernisation efforts, technological advancements, and infrastructure upgrades, has had a remarkable impact on improving the overall safety of India’s railways.
