Trains are widely regarded as one of the safest modes of transportation. Millions of people across the world travel by train on a daily basis, In addition to that, trains are an essential means of transporting goods, with trillions of tons of freight being moved across vast distances every year.
But this safest mode of transportation can all of a sudden turn into a deadly one too. the latest Greece train crash that killed 59 beautiful souls and the continuous cargo train derailments in the US that wreaked havoc in the environment cement this point further.
Although fatal train accidents appear to happen not so often, when they do occur, they cause serious damage to human life, infrastructure, and the environment. Over the past two decades, numerous accidents have resulted in the deaths and injuries of hundreds of people, causing also extensive damage.
For example, in 2002, the Alayat train disaster claimed the lives of 383 people after a fire broke out in one carriage, spreading to seven others. In 2013, a train traveling at 179 kph on a stretch of track with an 80 kph speed limit derailed, resulting in 80 fatalities. In 2021, two passenger trains derailed in Sindh's Ghotki region in Pakistan, killing 66 people and injuring hundreds more. Such train accidents continue to occur every year, putting the lives of all passengers at risk. Some of these accidents happen due to minor negligence by drivers, while others occur due to objects coming in the train's way.
In the current era of advanced technology, preventing tragic accidents and avoiding unnecessary loss of precious lives and valuable goods should not be a difficult task.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) trained on large datasets can be used in real-time to detect potential obstructions that may be in the way of the train, from miles away.. In case an obstruction is detected AI system can alert the train crew to take action or can be automated to slow down and stop the train before it reaches the obstruction. Using AI condition monitoring system early warnings for any defects in rail tracks and faults in the mechanical system of the trains can be given to the crew, In tasks where any human negligence can cost a lot should be made automated. moreover, trains should be regularly checked for any faults before letting them roll on the track.
As trains are such a commonly used means of transportation, it is essential that governments allocate sufficient funds to ensure that they are compatible with modern safety systems. Preventing unnecessary loss of life should be a priority, and it is hoped that countries will take action to implement these measures before any further heart-wrenching incident occurs.
No comments:
Post a Comment