Madurai Railway Division Holds Intensive Mock Drill at Manamadurai Junction
The Madurai railway division conducted a detailed and extensive mock drill at Manamadurai on Thursday, aiming to rigorously assess the readiness and efficiency of railway officials in managing emergency scenarios involving passenger trains. This proactive exercise was designed to simulate real-world crises and enhance operational protocols.
Simulated Derailment Scenario Triggers Emergency Response
The drill commenced promptly after a simulated message was received at the divisional control office in Madurai from the station master at Manamadurai. At approximately 10:05 AM, as part of the carefully crafted scenario, it was reported that the Trichy–Mandapam special train had derailed at road-6 of Manamadurai Junction. This setup initiated a chain of coordinated actions to test the division's emergency management systems.
Upon receiving the alert, Divisional Railway Manager Om Prakash Meena immediately arrived at the divisional control office. He coordinated with all relevant departments, reviewed the unfolding situation, and issued crucial instructions. Following this initial coordination, Meena proceeded to the simulated accident site to personally oversee rescue and restoration arrangements, ensuring hands-on leadership.
Detailed Scenario and Rapid Deployment of Resources
In the mock scenario, two coaches—specifically the fourth and fifth from the locomotive—were depicted as capsized, with fire and smoke simulated in one of the affected coaches to add realism. The overhead electric wire was assumed to have snapped in the impacted area, and approximately 25 meters of track were considered damaged. Importantly, the locomotive and signalling and telecommunication equipment were reported safe, and the adjacent or main line remained unaffected, minimizing broader disruption.
The siren indicating a special occurrence in train operations was sounded at 10:07 AM, marking the official start of emergency protocols. The Self Propelled Accident Relief Train (SPART), equipped with medical assistance, departed from Madurai at 10:13 AM and arrived at Manamadurai by 11:05 AM as part of the drill. Additionally, the Accident Relief Train (ART) featuring a 140-tonne crane left Madurai at 10:42 AM and reached the site at 11:25 AM, demonstrating swift logistical response.
Comprehensive Testing and Key Participants
This exercise thoroughly tested multiple critical aspects of emergency management, including activation systems, inter-departmental coordination, medical and fire response capabilities, rescue operations, and restoration proficiency. The drill significantly strengthened the division's preparedness to handle real-time emergencies effectively, ensuring robust safety measures are in place.
Key officials who actively participated in the drill included LN Rao, Additional Divisional Railway Manager, and K Mohaidheen Pitchai, Senior Divisional Safety Officer, along with other officers. Furthermore, Sanket Gaikwad, Deputy Commandant of the 04th Battalion, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), along with 31 personnel, contributed their expertise, highlighting collaborative efforts between railway authorities and disaster response teams.
