The Hindu Business Line : Rlys to crack down on tipsy drivers

In order to keep a check on those drivers who get tipsy while on duty, the railways is in the process of introducing automated breathalyser systems for the loco pilots or drivers, which would target those who fail the breathalyser test by taking their pictures and recording their exact details .

At present, the breathalyser test for the engine drivers or the "loco pilots" is done manually.

"Around 66 per cent of train accidents are caused due to human errors. A significant section of these can be attributed to drinking problems," said a Railways official.

The system aims to enable effective monitoring of the crew, provide managerial information on utilisation of crew and sectional speeds.

To start with, the automated system called "SIGNSAFE" has been introduced in certain divisions of Western Railway including Kota, Jabalpur and Bhopal.

"We plan to implement the automated system across the country by the end of next financial year or March 2006," added the official.

"IR has introduced a computerised SIGNSAFE system for loco pilots (drivers) to ensure their alcohol-free sign-on and sign-off for a safer rail service to the nation," informed an official statement.

"As against the existing system of breathalyser test done manually with no results recorded, the new SIGNSAFE system is fool-proof and safe for rail services.

In the new system, crew cannot sign-on without successfully taking breathalyser test. Every failed breathalyser test is recorded and printed, along with the photograph," said the statement.

The system generates reports on loco pilot's knowledge and status of reported defects for corrective measures.

The records and the photograph act as a documentary evidence for initiating disciplinary action against the delinquent staff.

"The sign-in and sign off device is attached in the locomotive," added an official. No manual intervention is needed during the entire process, making the system safe from personal biases, according to the Ministry.