Elephant-train collisions are a recurring issue, particularly in regions where railway tracks intersect with wildlife corridors. These incidents often spark public outcry and call for action, only to fade into the background until the next tragedy occurs. Recent initiatives by university students to develop a collision avoidance system highlight the need for innovative solutions.
This article explores existing technologies, their
effectiveness, and potential enhancements to mitigate such accidents.
Current Technologies
Several technologies are being implemented globally to
reduce wildlife-related accidents on railways:
1. Gajraj Suraksha System: In India, the Northeast
Frontier Railway (NFR) has introduced the Gajraj Suraksha system, an Intrusion
Detection System (IDS) that uses optical fibre cables to detect elephant
movements. This AI-based system alerts train controllers and drivers, allowing
them to take preventive measures [1]. The system has shown promise in reducing
elephant-train collisions.
2. AI-Driven Surveillance Systems: In Tamil Nadu, AI
cameras are used to monitor elephant movements near railway tracks. These
cameras detect elephants within a 100ft radius and alert authorities, enabling
them to slow down trains or guide elephants away from tracks [5].
3. Motion Detection Sensors: Similar to tsunami
warning systems, motion detection sensors can be installed to alert nearby
radio masts, which then trigger alarms to warn drivers of potential obstacles.
Effectiveness and Challenges
Detection and Response Time: The proposed system aims
to detect obstructions 500 meters ahead. However, at speeds of 50 km/h, this
distance is covered in less than a minute, which may be insufficient for
effective avoidance actions, especially at night when human reaction times are
slower.
Automated Responses: Programming the system to
automatically activate flashing headlamps, horns, and reduce speed could
enhance safety. Incorporating specialized horns that emit sounds audible to
animals could also deter them from crossing.
Infrastructure and Speed Management: Identifying
frequent crossing areas and reducing train speeds significantly in these zones
could mitigate accidents. However, this requires ensuring that tracks can
withstand high speeds in other areas to maintain schedules.
Regulatory Environment
Implementing new technologies on railways involves
navigating complex regulatory frameworks. In India, for instance, the Railway
Ministry and state forest departments collaborate on projects like Gajraj
Suraksha. Regulations often focus on safety standards and environmental impact,
which can influence the adoption of new technologies.
Future Directions
To enhance collision avoidance systems, incorporating
features from successful technologies like TCAS (Traffic Collision Avoidance
System) could be beneficial. TCAS is widely used in aviation to prevent mid-air
collisions and could provide insights into real-time alert systems.
Preventing elephant-train collisions requires a
multi-faceted approach involving advanced technologies, improved
infrastructure, and effective communication systems. While current technologies
show promise, ongoing innovation and collaboration between stakeholders are
crucial to reducing these tragic incidents effectively.
Citations:
[5] https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-68988189
[6] https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/assam-elephants-train-accident-4417752/
[7] https://www.themorning.lk/articles/JQQMMALuE1hueI5B2RhC
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