Ashwini Vaishnaw Reports 90% Decline in Train Accidents Since 2014-15
Synopsis
In a significant announcement, Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw revealed that train accidents on Indian Railways have dramatically decreased by nearly 90% since 2014-15. This improvement is attributed to enhanced safety measures and continuous investment in technology.
Key Takeaways
90% reduction in train accidents since 2014-15.
Implementation of advanced safety measures .
Investment in technology has increased significantly.
Introduction of the Kavach system for automatic train protection.
Ongoing focus on operational safety by Indian Railways.
New Delhi, March 19 (NationPress) The Indian Railways has recorded a remarkable reduction in train accidents over the years, with consequential incidents decreasing by nearly 90%, according to Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw during a Parliament session.
In a written reply presented in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, the minister emphasized that safety is a top priority for Indian Railways, and ongoing efforts have significantly enhanced operational safety.
The number of consequential train accidents plummeted from 135 in 2014-15 to merely 14 in 2025-26 (up to February 28), he stated.
Data provided by the minister indicated that from 2004-05 to 2013-14, there were 1,711 consequential train accidents, resulting in 904 fatalities and 3,155 injuries. This figure dropped to 678 accidents between 2014-15 and 2023-24, leading to 748 deaths and 2,087 injuries.
In 2024-25, there were 31 reported accidents, causing 18 deaths and 92 injuries, while in 2025-26 (up to February), 14 accidents resulted in 16 fatalities and 28 injuries, according to him.
Vaishnaw attributed the decrease in accidents to various safety initiatives, such as improved track maintenance, advanced signaling systems, and technological enhancements.
Investment in safety-related initiatives has surged significantly, increasing from Rs 39,200 crore in 2013-14 to Rs 1,17,693 crore in 2025-26, with an additional allocation of Rs 1,20,389 crore for 2026-27.
To reduce human error, electronic interlocking systems have been installed at 6,665 stations, and interlocking has been applied at over 10,153 level crossings.
Full track circuiting, which verifies track occupancy via electrical means, has been deployed at 6,669 stations.
The minister also mentioned that the implementation of ‘Kavach’, an indigenously developed automatic train protection (ATP) system, was adopted as a national standard in 2020. The latest version of Kavach has been rolled out across 1,452 route kilometres, covering major high-density corridors like Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Howrah routes.
Vaishnaw asserted that continuous investment in technology and infrastructure is aiding Indian Railways in enhancing safety and decreasing the number of accidents.
Point of View
The announcement regarding the significant decline in train accidents by Ashwini Vaishnaw reflects a commendable commitment to public safety by the Indian Railways. The focus on technological advancements and infrastructure improvements showcases a proactive approach to enhancing transportation safety in India.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the percentage decline in train accidents since 2014-15?
Train accidents have declined by nearly 90% since 2014-15.
What factors contributed to the decline in train accidents?
Factors include improved track maintenance, modern signaling systems, and increased expenditure on safety measures.
How many consequential train accidents occurred in 2014-15?
There were 135 consequential train accidents in 2014-15.
What is the Kavach system?
Kavach is an indigenously developed automatic train protection system designed to enhance train safety.
How much has the expenditure on safety measures increased?
Expenditure on safety-related activities rose from Rs 39,200 crore in 2013-14 to Rs 1,17,693 crore in 2025-26.
