MEMU Rake Derails During Testing at Kapurthala Rail Coach Factory
A significant incident occurred at the Rail Coach Factory (RCF) in Kapurthala on Wednesday, when a newly manufactured Mainline Electric Multiple Unit (MEMU) rake derailed during routine testing. The event resulted in extensive damage to Railway property, with estimated losses running into crores of rupees, but fortunately, no casualties or injuries were reported.
Details of the Incident
According to initial reports, the mishap took place inside the factory premises during the testing phase of a newly built MEMU rake. Allegedly due to technical negligence, the rake suddenly went out of control and sped out of the coach completion shop. It smashed through two heavy iron gates along its path and continued moving toward the main line near the West Colony area.
The situation escalated when the driving motor coach (DMC) of the rake derailed following a strong impact, which halted its further movement. The force of the collision caused significant damage, raising concerns about safety protocols at one of India's premier coach manufacturing facilities.
Eyewitness Accounts and Official Response
Eyewitnesses described the incident as extremely alarming, noting that a car passing nearby narrowly escaped being hit by the MEMU rake. They emphasized that had the rake continued onto the main line, the consequences could have been far more severe, potentially leading to loss of life and disruption of Railway operations.
Confirming the incident, RCF's Chief Public Relations Officer, Aman Kumar, stated that while no harm to human life or external property was reported, the matter is being treated with utmost seriousness. He added that a detailed inquiry has been initiated to ascertain the exact cause of the mishap and fix accountability.
Union Criticism and Safety Concerns
Meanwhile, the RCF Employees Union has strongly criticized the factory administration, alleging that indiscriminate outsourcing and privatization policies are compromising safety standards. Union president Amrik Singh and general secretary Sarvjeet Singh accused the administration of deploying inadequately trained contractual workers for highly sensitive technical operations.
The union leaders demanded immediate departmental action against responsible officials and supervisors. They also called for the cancellation of the contract awarded to the private firm involved and urged the administration to halt outsourcing in critical areas such as testing and shunting. Emphasizing safety, they insisted that only experienced and regular staff should be assigned for such operations.
Investigation and Future Steps
The incident has once again highlighted concerns over operational safety and the need for strict adherence to technical protocols within the Rail Coach Factory. Authorities are expected to submit a detailed report following the completion of an investigation into the incident, which will aim to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
