'High chance of derailing'; Big safety concern raised against Vande Bharat trains

CHENNAI: The Safety Commissioner expressed concern over the safety of Vande Bharat, the semi-high-speed train of Indian Railways. The findings suggest that the Vande Bharat train, capable of crossing 160 km per hour, also has a very high chance of derailing. The train is highly prone to derail even if it hits a cow crossing the track while at maximum speed.

Based on the findings, the Commissioner of Railway Safety has submitted a report to the Union Ministry of Railways. The lower weight of Vande Bharat trains compared to other trains increases the chances of such a derailment. The report submitted by the Safety Commissioner also states that the locomotive engine is in front of the other express trains, cutting short the risk of derailment even if it hits cows.

Meanwhile, Southern Railway officials informed that the Railway Ministry had decided to construct concrete fences on both sides of the tracks.

Many railway zones have started constructing concrete fences. So far, 3000 km of concrete fences have been constructed. Vande Bharat also has a Kavach system. There have been several reported incidents in the past where Vande Bharat trains hit cattle and caused significant damage to the front portion of the train.