Probe into recurring signal failures holds local technician responsible
A railway inquiry has held a local signal technician responsible for a near-collision in Chennai caused by recurring signal failures. The report also criticized the motorman for failing to follow operating rules, despite his actions preventing a major accident.
Why it matters
It highlights systemic maintenance issues in critical public infrastructure and raises questions about accountability for safety lapses in busy transit corridors.
A probe into the serious safety lapse in which a suburban train in Chennai was allowed to enter a line already occupied by two other trains has held a local signal technician primarily responsible for the incident.
However, the inquiry panel also termed the whistleblower motorman of the electrical multiple unit (EMU), whose alertness averted a potential disaster, as “blameworthy” for allegedly failing to follow prescribed operating rules. The committee faulted the Senior Section Engineer (Signal), citing repeated failures of automatic signals on the Ambattur-Avadi section, one of the busiest routes in Southern Railway’s Chennai Division.
The incident occurred on March 5, 2026, between Ambattur and Avadi stations, when Automatic Signal S192 displayed a ‘Double Yellow’ aspect, authorising an approaching EMU to proceed even though the line ahead was already occupied.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in