Passenger Safety in the Event of an Upcoming Train Derailment

Imagine finding out that your train is about to derail in just one minute. What should you do? While a minute might seem a brief window, it can still provide crucial time for safety measures. Understanding the right actions can significantly enhance your chances of survival.

First Steps to Take

The first step is to remain calm. Accidents like derailments, collisions, or overturns don't give you much time. They often occur within a fraction of a second, making it nearly impossible to avoid them.

In the event of an impending derailment, the train driver or manager will apply the brakes to slow the train down. Pulling the emergency brake chain within a minute is also an option. While it may seem easy, it requires quick action as early as possible.

Options for Survival

Depending on the type of coach and your position, different strategies can be employed to ensure your safety:

ICF Built Non-LHB Coaches

For ICF-built non-LHB coaches, there's little that can be done. Bracing yourself against the seat or the wall can provide some safety. However, making peace with your faith may be necessary as such coaches lack built-in safety features. This is a grim but realistic scenario.

Other Non-Indian Built Coaches

If the coach is from a non-ICF-built manufacturer, it typically has built-in safety features. Bracing yourself against the seat or wall is enough to mitigate risks. This can significantly increase your chances of survival if the accident occurs.

Slow Trains and Emergency Exits

In the case of a slow train, you might have the option to jump off. This can save you from a severe injury, especially in high-speed collisions. However, think carefully before making this decisive move. Jumping off may not guarantee survival, but it can certainly improve your chances. For instance, during the Gaisal collision, many who jumped off survived the subsequent pile-up, reducing the risk of getting trapped inside the coaches.

Post-Accident Safety and Preparedness

While the train is coming to a stop, move to the centre of the coach away from windows and toilets, which are the first to be damaged in a derailment. This central position provides a relative safety from falling debris and sudden impacts. Always remember to pull the emergency chain if you can, which can reduce the train's speed and potentially minimize the impact of the accident.

Travel Insurance

To ensure your safety and financial security, consider purchasing travel insurance. It's a minor cost—only INR 0.49 per journey—that can cover up to INR 1000000 in travel insurance. Booking this coverage at the time of your journey is a wise decision.

Remember, in critical situations, staying calm and making informed decisions based on the available options can be the difference between life and death. Share your experiences and insights in the comments below to help others prepare better for unexpected situations.

Image Credit: Prashant Tiwari

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