Prayagraj: To enhance safety of railway track workers, the Prayagraj Division of the North Central Railway (NCR) is set to introduce a device named ‘Rakshak’– an advanced approaching train warning system. “This innovative system aims to protect trackmen, keymen, patrolmen and other employees working on railway tracks from accidents caused by approaching trains. The system is especially effective in foggy conditions when visibility is low,” said senior public relations officer of NCR, Amit Malviya. Malviya said it was observed that workers on the tracks often become deeply engrossed in their tasks, occasionally overlooking safety instructions issued by supervisors. This distraction sometimes led to tragic consequences when trains approached unexpectedly.To prevent the recurrence of such accidents, the railway administration is equipping track workers with the ‘Rakshak’ device. The initiative was first launched in the Agra Division of NCR. Malviya explained that ‘Rakshak’ is a Very High Frequency (VHF) based radio warning system directly linked to the railway’s signal control system. This handheld walkie-talkie style device provides alerts through LED indicators, audible buzzers and vibrations, warning workers of incoming trains.When the railway signals in the worker’s section turn green, the device emits a loud beeping sound to alert them immediately. This timely warning helps workers stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to avoid accidents.The device will soon be distributed among employees in the Prayagraj Division.
