Millions of people worldwide rely on trains as a crucial mode of transportation, emphasizing the need for regular maintenance to ensure safety, dependability, and effectiveness. Neglecting train maintenance can lead to mishaps, breakdowns, and other safety risks.
Despite being the fourth-largest railway network in the world and connecting millions of people every day, the Indian railway system has been criticized for its subpar maintenance practices. The lack of proper maintenance of rolling stock is a significant issue plaguing the Indian Railways.
Indian railways have been using the same engines, berths, fans, and other equipment for many years. While this approach may reduce expenses for the railways, it often becomes a headache for passengers.
One netizen recently raised an issue on Twitter about the same kind of potential safety hazard on a train.
Mukhtar Ali, a software engineer, posted a photo of a protruding handle from a seat and filed a complaint with Railway Seva regarding the damage it caused to his clothing and body. The specific seat number mentioned in the complaint was 29 C2 on the Uttaranchal Sampark Kranti Express (15036) train.
Taking to Twitter, he wrote,
@RailwaySeva look at this handle it damaged my butt and trouser sitting in 15036 seats no 29 C2. Please fix this it is so dangerous
@RailwaySeva look at this handle it damaged my butt and trouser sitting in 15036 seat no 29 C2. Please fix this it is so dangerous 😭 pic.twitter.com/DatJAjRGjz
— Mukhtar Ali (@famukhtar786) May 1, 2023
Ali probably sat on the handle without realizing it because it was sticking out between two chairs.
Railway Seva responded to his tweet
Soon his tweet caught Railway Seva’s attention, and they wrote,
Please share your PNR/UTS details and mobile no. preferably via DM so that we may register it as a complaint. You may also raise your concern directly at http://railmadad.indianrailways.gov.in or dial 139 for speedy redressal.
Please share your PNR/UTS details and mobile no. preferably via DM so that we may register it as a complaint. You may also raise your concern directly on https://t.co/JNjgaq11Jl or dial 139 for speedy redressal.
https://t.co/utEzIqAAkm— RailwaySeva (@RailwaySeva) May 1, 2023
In response to Ali’s tweet, the Railway Seva Twitter account let him know that the problem has been raised to the Divisional Railway Manager in Izzatnagar in Uttar Pradesh.
For necessary action escalated to the concerned official @Drm_drmizn
For necessary action escalated to the concerned official @Drm_drmizn
— RailwaySeva (@RailwaySeva) May 1, 2023
The course of action to address the issue highlighted by Ali’s complaint remains unclear at the moment. However, his tweet underscores the significance of regular railway maintenance and safety inspections.
Unfortunately, the problem of damaged handles, seats, and other train components is not isolated to this incident. Many commuters and tourists share their experiences of encountering unsafe conditions, unclean restrooms, or food while traveling by train.
Although the railway has taken some measures to enhance maintenance practices, there is still a need for further investment in modern equipment and technology. Upgrading tracks and signaling systems and improving the railway’s safety record are also necessary. By taking these steps, the Indian railway can become a more dependable, efficient, and secure mode of transportation for its passengers.
