In a display of technological vigilance and swift response, a potential mishap was successfully averted at Tiruvalangadu Yard in Chennai Division, thanks to the prompt alert from the Electronic Interlocking (EI) system.

At 01:20 hrs on 25th April 2025, Point No. 64 at Tiruvalangadu yard failed, immediately triggering an alert through the Electronic Interlocking (EI) system installed at Tiruvalangadu railway station. The Station Master was promptly informed, and a pointsman was swiftly deputed to the site. Upon scrutiny, it was discovered that a connecting bolt of the switch rail had been maliciously removed by miscreants.

The timely alert generated by the Electronic Interlocking system enabled railway staff to secure the defective point machine, thereby preventing any untoward incident. This incident highlights the reliability and robustness of Railway’s modern signalling systems, which are continuously monitored by senior officials to ensure passenger safety and operational efficiency.

This miscreant activity bears resemblance to an earlier bolt removal incident reported at Kavaraipettai in October 2024. Railway authorities are investigating the matter further, and stringent surveillance measures are being reinforced across vulnerable locations.

Southern Railway reiterates its commitment to safety, leveraging advanced signalling technologies and round-the-clock vigilance to safeguard rail operations.

Source/RSB