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Editorial

ATPS to avert train crashes

Installing it has become the need of the hour


Bangladeshpost
Published : 09 Dec 2020 09:02 PM | Updated : 10 Dec 2020 12:59 AM

Experts are of the opinion that automatic train protection system (ATPS) is indispensable for safe train journey. It can prevent accidents even if the driver falls asleep. Developed countries have already integrated ATPS to avert railway fatalities. This system has already been introduced in the developed world.

As reported by this daily on Wednesday, in the last 5 years at least 141 people have died in more than 900 train accidents in Bangladesh. Of these, 129 accidents occurred in 2019. However, the absurd reason for such an increasing number of rail-related fatalities is that two-thirds of Bangladesh Railway’s level crossings have no designated gatemen and there is no siren system at most of the level crossing in Bangladesh. We hope, by integrating ATPS, we would be able to prevent such unwanted accidents that are taking place because of shortage of manpower and wrong signaling.


 We hope, by integrating ATPS, we would be able to prevent 

unwanted accidents that are taking place because of 

shortage of manpower and wrong signaling


Manpower shortage, lack of proper maintenance of the engine-coach and absence of vigilance at level crossings have increased the number of rail fatalities, most of which occur at level crossings. However, such a large number of unprotected level crossings have appeared as a serious threat for the country’s entire rail sector.

Authorities blame illegal construction of rail gates and inadequate manpower for the rise in rail-related accidents. Moreover, lack of awareness among the pedestrians crossing the rail tracks is adding fuel to the fire in this regard.

Considering all above, identifying the loopholes in train management and taking prudent steps to fix them have become very much pertinent in order to reduce the frequency of rail-accidents. Last but not least, we need to install siren and deploy adequate manpower like gatemen at every level crossing across the country.