Samastipur: With dense fog affecting visibility across parts of north Bihar, the railway division has stepped up preparations to ensure safe and smooth train operations during the winter season. Advanced fog-safe devices and modern signalling systems are being deployed to minimise delays and enhance operational safety amid low-visibility conditions.
Divisional Media In-charge RK Singh said fog-safe devices are being rapidly installed in the locomotives of trains operating through the division. These devices enable loco pilots to accurately identify signals, track markings and key locations even when visibility is severely reduced. In addition, the automatic signalling system across several sections has been upgraded.
On Sunday morning, Samastipur Junction remained shrouded in dense fog, highlighting the need for enhanced safety measures. To improve visibility, lime markings have been made at critical points along the tracks, including near tail lamps. Signal sighting boards have also been cleaned to ensure clearer visibility for train crews.
Further strengthening safety, luminous strips have been installed at level crossing gates to help identify crossings during night-time and foggy conditions. LED-based flasher tail lamps have been fitted on the last coaches of trains, providing improved visibility for trains running behind.
The railway division has also intensified refresher training for loco pilots, assistant loco pilots and guards at the Zonal Training Institute and other training centres. These sessions include practical exercises focused on handling train operations safely during foggy weather.
Continuous monitoring of crew changing points and locomotive links is being carried out to maintain punctual and safe train movement under all circumstances. Visibility test objects are being installed at important stations to help station masters accurately assess fog intensity and take timely operational decisions.
RK Singh added that arrangements have been completed for the immediate deployment of fog signalmen, detonators and other safety measures whenever required during dense fog conditions. The railway division has appealed to passengers to cooperate with railway staff, as precautionary measures during fog may lead to slight delays in train services but are essential for ensuring passenger safety.
