Accident Inquiry Guidelines

Index

Contents Page No Introduction, What is an Inquiry, Object of Inquiry, When Inquiry is held 01 Type of Inquiry into Accidents, Level of Inquiry 02 Schedule for Inquiry, Commission of Inquiry 03 CRS Inquiry, Magistrate Inquiry, Judicial Inquiry 04 Police Investigation, Joint Inquiry 05 When Joint Inquiry may be dispensed with, Method of conducting Joint Inquiry 06 Specimen Form ACDT-1 to 19 08 to 14 Signing of Joint Inquiry proceedings, Departmental Inquiry, How to prepare sketch of Accident site

14

Joint observation and measurement of track 15 Joint observation and measurement of locomotive, Joint observation and measurement of rolling stock Joint observation of S&T installation

16

Other clues to be collected 17 Important particulars to be furnished in the special report 18 Some key points on investigation of derailment 20 Some causes of derailment 21 Common causes of derailment 25 Relevant sections of Railway Act, 1989 in connection with Accident Inquiry 28 Appendix – I 30 Appendix – II 32 Appendix – III 37 Appendix – IV 40 Appendix – V 40 Biodata of witness 42 Information furnished by Medical Department 44 Information furnished by Transportation Department 44 Information furnished by Civil engineering Department 46 Information furnished by Mechanical Department (C & W) 49 Information furnished by Mechanical Department (Loco) 50 Information furnished by S &T Department 51 Information furnished by Electrical Department 51

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INTRODUCTION :

The Railways form a large part of the transport industry by playing greater role by the socio-economic life of the people. In doing so safety of railway users is of prime importance and railway employees should ensure that the safety of the people is not imperilled in a careless manner.

Few years back we believed on the concept that accident cannot be avoided in any transport system. But now, this concept has been changed after observing the performance of the Bullet Train in Japan.

In spite of adoption of the most modern and sophisticated assets in railway system, accidents are taking place even in advanced and developing countries. Why are these accidents occurring? – Certainly there is some cause. To eliminate these accidents the cause must be found out. To find out the cause of accident, INQUIRY is one of the worthy means.

WHAT IS AN INQUIRY

An Inquiry means the Judicial /Quasi- judicial proceedings. It is a set up of arbitrators’ committee formed amongst the concerning departmental officers. They collect the evidence and statements of the employees, having link with the accident and they are cross-examined by the members of the committee to arrive at a comprehensive conclusion about the cause of the accident based on factual and / or circumstantial evidence.

OBJECT OF INQUIRY

i) To establish the cause / causes of an accident,ii) To ascertain the rule / rules violated by any person,iii) To fix up responsibility on the correct person / persons for the accident,iv) To ascertain whether there has been any general laxity of working,

supervision of maintenance, or other indirect cause / causes which may have contributed to the accident,

v) To find out the defects, if any, in the system of working and suggest means and measures to prevent recurrence of similar accidents in future, and

vi) To find out whether there has been laxity or avoidable delay in rendering relief and restoring through communication.

WHEN INQUIRY IS HELD

i) The accident falls within the purview of section 113 of the Railway Act 1989,ii) There is reason to believe that railway staff are responsible either on Prima

Facie evidence or on Police report,iii) When system of working is suspected to be defective,iv) When accident is serious in nature,v) When CRS wants to hold an Inquiry or requires the Inquiry to be held,vi) The cause of the accident is not clear,vii) If ordered by GM/CSO,viii) If ordered by DRM

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TYPES OF INQUIRY INTO ACCIDENTS

Depending upon the gravity of the accident, accident enquiries are conducted by various Committee / Authorities at various levels.

i) Commission of Enquiryii) Commissioner of Railway Safety’s Enquiryiii) Magisterial / Judicial Enquiryiv) Police Investigationv) Joint Enquiryvi) Departmental Enquiry

Joint and Departmental Inquiries may be held by –

a) Administrative Officersb) Senior Scale Officersc) Junior Officersd) Senior group ‘C’ supervisory Officials

LEVEL OF INQUIRY

i) Depending upon the gravity of an accident and public interest generated thereupon, Central Government appoints a Commission, under the Commission of Inquiry Act – 1952, to inquire into the accident.

ii) All serious accidents are inquired by CRS as per Section 113 of the Railways Act 1989.

iii) In case, CRS or CCRS is not in a position to inquire into the serious accident case, the inquiry shall be done by a Committee of JA-grade Officers with DRM as the accepting authority subject to the review by CSO.

iv) All cases of collisions falling under A-1 to A-4 categories shall be inquired into by a committee of SAG officers with General Manager as the accepting authority unless the same is being inquired into by CRS.

v) All other consequential train accidents except unmanned level crossing shall be inquired by a Committee of JA grade Officers; in case of its absence, by Branch Officers. DRM shall be accepting authority for these inquiries subject to the review by CSO.

vi) Consequential unmanned Level Crossing accidents and all other train accidents shall be inquired into by Committee of Senior or Junior Scale Officers as decided by respective DRM with DRM as the accepting authority.

vii) All Yard Accidents shall be inquired into by a Committee of Senior Supervisors with Sr DSO / DSO as accepting authority.

viii) All cases of Indicative Accidents shall be inquired into by a Committee of Senior or Junior Scale Officers with DRM as the accepting authority.

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ix) All cases of Equipment Failure shall be inquired into by Senior Supervisors /Supervisor of respective departments.

ix) General Manager or DRM can have the inquiry conducted by a committee of higher levels of officers than the above mentioned levels depending upon the seriousness of the accident.

xi) In accident cases wherein the inquiry committee determines responsibility on the staff of Foreign Railway, the Inquiry Report should be put up to the Principal Head of the Department of the concerned department of the railway on which the accident took place through CSO after which such inquiry report shall be accepted by the AGM (instead of DRM). Finalization of Inter-railway DAR cases arising out of such inquiry reports be followed up by the Principal Head of the Department of the concerned department of the railway on which the accident took place. If suitable response is not received from the respondent railway at General Managers’ level, then the case should be referred to Railway Board.

xii) All inquiries will be ordered by the concerned DRM except for inquiries into collisions as per item (iv) above wherein GM will order the inquiries.

THE SCHEDULE FOR INQUIRY

The target date laid down for holding and processing are given below:-

D = Date of accident = SM concern shall issue all concern message within 12 hour of the accident occurred.

D + 1 = DRM / GM shall order the inquiry, if no particular department accepts the responsibility.

D + 3 = Committee shall convene the inquiry into the accident.

D + 7 = Submission of Inquiry report to DRM / GM.

D + 10= Acceptance of Inquiry Report by the GM / DRM / Sr. DSO.

D + 15= Inquiry report will be finalised by CSO / AGM.

D + 20= Submission of inquiry report to CRS for the section of the Railway on which the accident occurred with the remarks. A copy of the findings of the Inquiry Report has to be sent to Railway Board.

D + 90= DAR action against responsible officials to be completed.

Note: (i) DRM / GM may decide to have the inquiry conducted even if a particular department accepts the responsibility for enabling thorough review of associated systems involved in the accident.

(ii) The limits prescribed above are the maximum period of time. Railway should make efforts to finalize the Inquiry Report and DAR action as early as possible but not beyond the prescribed time limit.

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Commission of Enquiry

Depending upon the gravity of an accident and public interest generated thereupon Central Government appoints a Commission under the Commission of Enquiry Act 1952, to enquire into the accident, either on the discretion of Government or an order from parliament. It functions like a Court as far as procedure for holding enquiry is concerned. Chairman is High Court / Supreme Court Judge, either serving or retired; two other members to assist him, one from legislation and other retired eminent railway man. The Commission has the power of Court so far as summoning witness, taking evidences under oath, calling for documents and to examine premises. When this enquiry is going on other enquiries are not to be held. It is discretionary for the Government to accept or reject the findings.

CRS ENQUIRY

All serious accidents are inquired by the Commissioner of Railway Safety as per section 113 of the Railways’ Act 1989. However, for any accident, the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety may either hold the inquiry himself or direct any CRS to do so. CRS shall notify CCRS, the Railway Board and the Head of the Railway Administration concerned of his intention to hold an inquiry, as soon as possible, fixing the date and time of inquiry. Public is called for to give evidence. Railway Administration also arranges witness to make available whatever other evidences those are necessary. Senior officers are deputed to assist CRS. DM / DSP / SRP are also informed to be present in enquiry. CRS submits a preliminary report to CCRS, Railway Board, and GM and in case of sabotage to the Director, Intelligence Bureau, Ministry of Home Affairs. Draft report is submitted to all concerned. GM gives his comment on the CRS report and sends the same to Railway Board, CCRS & CRS within a fortnight of the receipt of draft report from CRS. PHOD shall submit their remarks within five days of receipt of the reference from CSO. Punishment awarded to staff shall be advised to CRS for CRS’ record.

MAGISTRATE INQUIRY

Whenever an accident covering Sec 113 of Railway Act 1989 has occurred in the course of working a railway, the District Magistrate or any other Magistrate who may be appointed in this behalf by the state Government, may either himself conduct the inquiry into the causes of the accident or direct Subordinate Magistrate (first class, if possible) or Police Officer for inquiry / investigation. This Enquiry shall be dispensed with in case Commission of Enquiry is appointed by Central Government. If the Magistrate Inquiry has started, all the evidences records and other documents shall be handed over to the Commission.

Magistrate desiring to hold an inquiry, shall at once inform the Head of the Railway Administration concerned and DRM by telegraph, of the date and time at which the inquiry will commence enabling Railway Administration to summon the requisite evidences.

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The Result of the Magistrate Inquiry has to be communicated to the Head of the Railway Administration as well as to CRS.

JUDICIAL INQUIRY

A Magistrate may summon any Railway servant and any other person whose presence may be necessary. After taking evidence and completing the enquiry, if he considers that there are sufficient grounds for holding a Judicial Inquiry, shall take requisite steps for bringing to trial any person who may be considered to be criminally liable for the accident.

Summoning Railway servant to assist in the Judicial Inquiry:

If the Magistrate desires the assistance of CRS / Head of the Railway Administration concerned, he shall issue a requisition to the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety or the Railway Board for the presence of CRS or the Head of the Railway Administration, stating the nature of the assistance. If desired by the Magistrate the Railway Officer concerned should attend the Court. When an accident requiring CRS inquiry occurs at a station where the jurisdictions of two or more commissioners of Railway Safety meet,, the duty of complying with this Rule shall devolve on the Commissioner of Railway Safety within whose jurisdiction to Railway such station lies. At the location where the issue cannot be resolved then it shall be finalized by CCRS.

On the conclusion of the Judicial Inquiry the Magistrate shall send a copy of his decision to the Head of the Railway Administration concerned and to CRS. Unless in any case he thinks it is necessary to do so, he shall report the result of the inquiry to the State Government.

POLICE INVESTIGATION

The Railway Police may make an investigation into the causes, which led to any accident occurring in the course of working a Railway – (i) when attended with loss of human life or grievous hurt or with serious damage to Railway property of the value exceeding Rs 25, 00,000/- or has prima facie due to any criminal act or omission; (ii) when DM/Magistrate has given direction.

Police investigation shall be dispensed with –i) when Central Government has appointed a Commission of Inquiryii) when Central Government has appointed any other authorityiii) when Magistrate Inquiry has been commenced

Police Officer deputed to conduct the investigation shall ordinarily be –a) the senior officer available;b) whenever possible, a Gazetted Officer;c) Police Officer not below the rank of an Inspector.

Officer in charge of a Police station may carry out the investigation in case of an accident attended with no loss of human life or grievous hurt to more person than one or no damage to Railway property of value exceeding Rupees twenty five

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lakhs or there is no reason to suspect that any servant of the Railway has been guilty of neglect of any Rule relating to the working of Railway;

OR

In case the District Magistrate so directs.

The Police officer who is to conduct an investigation shall at once inform the Head of the Railway Administration concerned and the DRM by telegraph of the date and time of commencement of inquiry. If possible, a railway official shall be present to watch the proceedings and aid the officer making investigation.

On getting information from Railway Police, District Police shall afford all necessary assistance, if required.

The result of every Police investigation shall be reported at once to the District Magistrate or other officer appointed in this behalf, to the Head of the Railway Administration concerned or other officer appointed by him and to CRS.

JOINT INQUIRY

Whenever a reportable train accident has occurred in the course of working a railway, the head of the Railway Administration concerned shall cause an injury to be promptly made by a committee of Railway officers to find out the causes of accident. Such inquiry may be termed as ‘Joint Inquiry’.

In case of accident not falling under Section 113 of Railway Act 1989 such as Averted Collision, Breach of Block Rules or other Indicative Accidents, Railway Administration may cause a joint inquiry.

Competent Authority to issue orders for holding joint inquiry –

i) General Manager ( A-1 to A-4)ii) DRM ( All other Accidents )

Whenever a joint inquiry is to be made, the Head of the Railway Administration concerned shall cause notice of the date and time of the commencement of the inquiry to the District Magistrate / DC of the district or other officer appointed in this behalf, the Superintendent of Police; the CRS concerned and Head of the Railway Police of the jurisdiction at which the accident occurred. If there is no Railway Police the officer in charge of the Police station concerned may be advised.

When a joint inquiry is held after receipt of information about the inability of the CRS to hold an inquiry, the Head of the Railway Administration concerned shall issue a Press Note in this behalf inviting the public to tender evidence at the inquiry or send information relating to the accident to the Joint Inquiry Committee.

A joint inquiry shall be held at the station nearest to the site of accident and within three days after the occurrence of accident. If there is no siding facility to stable the Inspection Carriages the inquiry shall be held at the nearest station where siding facilities exist. The site of accident shall be inspected immediately.

The Senior Officer in all cases shall preside. Seniority shall be decided by rank. Officers officiating or temporary in rank shall be on par with the officers

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confirmed in that rank. The relative seniority in any one rank shall be based on the date of increment in the junior time scale.

When the Inquiry Committee consists of senior subordinates only, the senior most official belonging to any department, shall preside.

The date once fixed should not be changed, except in case of absolute necessity.

The representative of each department shall be responsible for summoning and arranging for the attendance at the enquiry of the staff, able to give evidence, of his own department. The presiding officer shall arrange for the attendance of any other witness whose presence is desirable.

When Police officials and Magistrates attend inquiry they are to be treated as ‘also present’. Their duties will be only to see that the evidence is properly recorded and that the salient points of the case are carefully inquired into. They may be permitted to put a question to the witness through the President in matter involving a point of law or to bring out a point more clearly. The Findings and Discussion of Evidence and Reasons for Findings must not be drawn out in their presence. But copies of proceeding may be furnished to the Police, as and when requested except the Recommendation, Matter brought to light, System improvement etc.

WHEN A JOINT INQUIRY MAY BE DISPENSED WITH

A Joint Inquiry may be dispensed with under the following situations –

a) If any Inquiry is to be held by the Commissioner of Railway Safety or a Commission appointed under the Commission of Inquiry Act, 1952 (60 of

1952) or any other authority appointed by the Central Govt, or

b) If there is no reasonable doubt as to the cause of the accident, or

c) When the cause of accident appears to be clear and the department concerned accepts the responsibility.

METHOD OF CONDUCTING JOINT INQUIRY

i] Before starting the inquiry, issues shall be framed and the evidence confined to settle these issues as far as possible.

ii) Statement with bio data of the witnesses shall be taken before starting the inquiry.

iii) Witnesses shall not be permitted to make long irrelevant statements.

iv) The statement given by the witness shall first be read over to him and recorded as his deposition and his signature shall be obtained.

v) The witness shall be cross-examined, if necessary, to elicit important details. Any evidence on the part of the witness shall be the out-come of cross-examination shall be recorded. The questions put to the witness in the cross-examinations and the answers thereof shall be recorded then and there.

vi) If a witness in his statement gives evidence of facts which are contrary to the rules and regulations and which render him culpable of neglect or violation of the rules and regulations, it should be revealed from the witness, during his

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examination whether he is aware that the facts stated by him are contrary to the rules and regulations.

vii) The Inquiry Officer / Committee should not be satisfied merely with the determination of the immediate cause / causes of the accident, but shall look for eliciting necessary evidence and ascertain the contributory factors, if any, which have led the staff to commit the breach of rules. They should also look into the matter of extenuating circumstances, such as inadequacy of signalling /interlocking equipment or other safety devices etc., if any, which have a bearing on the accident.

viii) The Inquiry Officer / Committee shall also note “Matter brought to light” and “System Improvement” in the course of the inquiry with the object to prevent recurrence of such type of accident.

ix) A report of the proceeding shall be written by the President or by someone deputed by him for this duty. The report may be typed and the President shall initial any correction in it. The signature of the witness shall be obtained then and there on all pages of the deposition / evidence / answers to cross-examination.

x) As soon as any Joint Inquiry has been completed, the President of the committee of Railway Officers shall send a report to the Head of the Railway Administration concerned (DRM / CSO).

xi) The Head of the Railway Administration concerned ( DRM / CSO ) shall forward, with his remarks as to the action that is intended to be taken in regard to the staff responsible for the accident or for the revision of the rules or the system of working, a copy of the report to the –

a) CRS for the section concerned,b) District Magistrate or the Officer appointed in this behalf and c) Magistrate making such inquiry if any Judicial Inquiry is made.

xii) The Report of the proceedings ( Inquiry Report ) should be in the following sequence –

a) Summary (Form ACDT – 1)b) Formation of Inquiry Committee (Form ACDT – 2)c) Descriptive account of the accident (Form ACDT – 3)d) List of witnesses examined with their names and designation (Form

ACDT – 4)e) Deposition of witness (Form ACDT – 5)f) Remarks and reasons for findings (Form ACDT – 6)g) Joint Findings (Form ACDT – 7)h) Matter brought to light during the enquiry (Form ACDT – 8)i) Suggestion, Recommendation and System Improvement (Form ACDT –

9)j) Relief measures, restoration etc (Form ACDT – 10)k) Marks on or defective permanent way, Rolling stock and Engine (Form

ACDT – 11)l) Condition of track as noted just after accident (Form ACDT – 12)m)Result of examination of track, sleeper, keys, spikes etc.(Form ACDT –

13)

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n) Particulars of dimension recorded for rolling stock involved in accident (Form ACDT – 14)

o) Details of sketch, plan, photographs taken at the site of accident (Form ACDT – 15)

p) Composition, Marshalling order and particulars of rolling stock involved in accident (Form ACDT – 16)

q) Details of damage to Engine and Rolling stock separately and approximate cost thereof (Form ACDT – 17)

r) Details of damage to permanent way and approximate cost thereof (Form ACDT – 18)

s) Details of damage to Signal, Interlocking and Communication gears and approximate cost thereof (Form ACDT – 19)

SPECIMEN FORM ACDT - 1

S U M M A R Y -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1. Date -------------------------------------- 11. Gradient --------------------2. Time -------------------------------------- 12. Alignment ------------------3. Railway ---------------------------------- 13. Weather ---------------------4. Gauge ----------------------------------- 14. Visibility --------------------5. Location --------------------------------- 15. Cost of damage ------------6. Nature of Accident -------------------- 16. Casualties ------------------7. Train involved -------------------------- 17. Relief arrangement --------8. Speed of train -------------------------- 18. Cause -----------------------9. System of working -------------------- 19. Responsibility --------------10. Number of track ---------------------- 20. Recommendations --------

SPECIMEN FORM ACDT – 2

Formation of Inquiry Committee

Proceeding of Joint / Departmental Inquiry held at ------------------ on ----------------- to enquire into an accident, class -------------- which occurred at ------------on ----------

Authority -----------------------

By a Committee formed of ---------------

Committee consisting of

Name Designation---------------------------------------------PRESIDENT-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------MEMBER-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------MEMBER---------------------------------------------------------------------------MEMBER---------------------------------------

ALSO PRESENTName Designation

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NOT PRESENT ALSO ADVISED

Name Designation


Descriptive Account of the Accident

1. This form should be filled up correctly and appropriately and should not contain any matter, which falls under the head of Finding / Suggestion / Recommendation etc.

2. The descriptive account shall be confined to a brief but clear description and shall contain the following –

a) The time, date and events leading up to the accident, b) What actually occurred,c) The result and consequences including casualties, if any,d) Comments on first aid and medical assistance, e) Comments on relief and rescue operations, f) All relevant points and features required for a vivid picture of the accident

must be brought out which include –

i) Curvesii) Gradesiii) Type of signalling and interlockingiv) Type and condition of permanent wayv) Weight of engine and weight of each wheelvi) Marshalling of trainvii) Brakes and number of braked wheelsviii) Condition of rolling stockix) Time train was due, and, if late time lost and reason thereforex) Extract from the Train Signal Register or Line Clear Enquiry and

Reply books at the station at both ends of the block section concerned, if the running time, speed, departure or arrival time is in dispute.

xi) Whether the train was booked to run through or stopxii) Whether train was booked to cross, or was crossing or to stop out of

course.xiii) Whether head light was burning during nightxiv) Weight on each wheel of vehicle concerned in a derailment.

Note: Only such of the above items as are directly relevant to the accident shall be included.


List of witness in the order examined with their names, designation and station

Sl No. Name Designation Station

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Deposition of witness No. ------------------Name --------------------------------- Designation --------------Salary -------------------------------- Grade ---------------------Head Qrs. Station ----------------- Age ------------------------Total length of service, years ----------------- Months -------------------Length of service in present rank -------------------------------------------------------Previous service -----------------------------------------------------------------------------On the occasion of the accident I was on duty as --------------------------- at ------From -------------------- hours on --------------------- to ------------------------ hours on ------After --------------------- hours rest before coming on duty.

Read over, translated and accepted as correct.Signature of witness --------------------------- Date -----------------------

President -------------------------------------

(If necessary continuation sheet should be used)

The evidence of witnesses must be recorded as a connected narrative with subsequent admissions and retractions brought out in the cross-examination recorded in the form of questions and answers. A witness must be permitted to make a full statement of all the relevant facts of which he / she has knowledge. Before starting to record his evidence, he / she must be warned against making false, misleading or evasive statements. The witness, however, should not be intimidated.

The record of evidence must be signed by the witness giving it and by the President or Official making the inquiry. The witness and the President must initial each sheet.

In case of illiterate witness or when the witnesses are not conversant in English, their evidence shall be read over, translated and explained before obtaining their signatures or thumb impression ( for illiterate person ) being attested by the President / Official making the inquiry.

For recording the evidence a stenographer may be utilized by President / Official of Enquiry Committee. If stenographer is not available he will nominate a representative of the Operating Department on the committee to record the evidence in his own handwriting or by a typewriter. The typed statement shall be read and signed by the witnesses on each page.

No officer or a subordinate official whose evidence is required to be deposed before a fact-finding inquiry committee, should be appointed as a member of that committee except in real emergencies ( under the order of CSO ).


Reasons for findings

This should be embodied in three separate paragraphs:-I. Discussion of all conflicting evidence and the committee’s deductions

there from.II. The contributory factors, if any, and III. The extenuating circumstances, if any.

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[In absence of conflicting evidence, contributory factors or extenuating circumstances in a particular accident, this should be specifically mentioned. The committee should state fully the reasons which have led them to arrive at their finding bearing in mind that the proceedings have to be considered by those who have not had the advantage of hearing the evidence and reviewing the circumstances on the spot. The description of accident and the remarks should be as complete as possible. The value of evidence of each witness should be noted upon and it should be stated in the case of doubtful witnesses.]

Signature--------------- Signature ------------------- Signature---------Name (Member)-------- Name (President) ----------- Name (Member)--Designation ------------- Designation ----------------- Designation-------Date ---------------------- Date ------------------------- Date ----------------

N.B. This must be treated as a confidential document for use of the Administration and legal advisors only in case of litigation.


Joint Findings(Cause, Responsibility and Rules violated)

N.B. – The finding should be brief and concise and reference to rules infringed and by whom, should be specifically stated.After having inspected the site of accident and after having considered the evidence, we do find ----Signature ----------------------- Signature -------------------- Signature --Name (Member) --------------- Name (President) ---------- Name (Member) --Designation -------------------- Designation------------------ Designation-------Date ----------------------------- Date -------------------------- Date ----------

The finding must be drawn up and signed by all members forming the committee prior to disposal. The finding should not be discussed or drawn up in the presence of the Magistrate, Police and other Departmental officials who are “also present” at inquiries.

SPECIMEN FORM ACDT –8

Matters brought to light during the inquiry

Signature ----------------------- Signature ----------------------- Signature ---------Name (Member) --------------- Name (President) ------------ Name (Member) --Designation -------------------- Designation--------------------- Designation -------Date ----------------------------- Date ------------------------------ Date -------------In

the matters brought to light during the enquiry, the irregularities in working which might lead to accident of any description although not having a direct bearing in the accident, should be indicated. In the absence of any such matter, a ‘nil’ entry should be made in the Form.

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Suggestion, Recommendations and System Improvement

N.B. Suggestions for remedial measures should be based on the cause of accident as well as on any contributory factors and any extenuating circumstances.

The committee may suggest any improvements in the rules or practices of working, which in their opinion, would prevent similar accident in future or improve the working in any way. The inquiry committee should also mention how the system / practice/ procedures can be improved.Signature --------------------- Signature ---------------------- Signature ---------Name (Member)------------- Name (President)------------ Name (Member)---Designation ------------------ Designation ------------------- Designation -------Date --------------------------- Date ----------------------------- Date ----------------


Relief measures, Restoration etc.


Marks on defective permanent way, rolling stock and engines


Condition of track


Result of examination of track, sleepers, keys, spikes etc


Dimension of rolling stock involved in accidentSPECIMEN FORM ACDT – 15

Details sketch, plan, photographs taken at the site of accident


Composition, marshalling order and particulars of rolling stock on the train involved In accident

Up / Down Train No. ----------------------- Ex ---------------------------- To ----------

Sl No. Owning Railway

Class / type & Painted

No.

Weight BookedTare Gross From To

01 02 03 04 05 06 07

Empty or loaded of commodit

y

Last RemarksPOH at Date Packed

atDate Oiling

atDate

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08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15


Statement of damage to engine, rolling stock and approximate cost thereof

Item No. Description No. in each Amount To Rolling stock

i) Locomotiveii) Other

Total damage (i) & (ii) Rs.

N.B. – This statement must be signed by the departmental officer concerned.


Statement of damage to permanent way and approximate cost thereof

Item No.each

Description No. in Amount

I.II.

Permanent WayOther Railway Property

Total damage (I) & (II) Rs.

N.B. – This statement must be signed by the Departmental Officer concerned.


Statement of damage to signal, interlocking and communication gear and approximate Cost thereof

Item No.each

Description No. in Amount

I.II.III.

SignalInterlockingCommunication gear

Total damage (I) , (II) & (III) Rs.

N.B. – The statement must be signed by the Departmental Officer concerned.

SIGNING OF JOINT INQUIRY PROCEEDINGS

The proceedings shall be drawn up and signed before the committee disperse. If the members of the committee are not unanimous regarding the findings or remarks and reasons for findings or suggestions, a note of dissent shall be drawn separately and signed. If a member is unable to agree with the findings wholly or any part, he shall record his note of dissent on the spot and sign it. This document shall accompany the proceedings together with the remarks of the President of the Enquiry Committee.

DEPARTMENTAL ENQUIRY

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The Departmental Inquiry will be ordered by the DRM. The proceedings of Departmental Inquiry shall be drawn up in the same forms as those prescribed for Joint Inquiries and the same rules shall apply to the conduct of Departmental Inquiries, in so far as they are applicable.

HOW TO PREPARE SKETCH OF ACCIDENT SITE

The Engineering representative should prepare dimensioned sketches covering the entire site of accident. Due regard should be paid to the following instructions-

i) The sketch giving train no. Date and kilometre of the site of accident should properly labelled.

ii) It should indicate prominently the north point, direction of movement and names of station in rear and advance.

iii) It should cover a length of about 300 metres on both sides of the point of mount / drop.

iv) It should clearly indicate the path followed by derailed vehicles / vehicles.v) Each Railway track should be denoted by a pair of lines.vi) The position of level crossing, telegraph posts, bridges, tunnels, gradient

posts with gradient symbols, curves demarking the beginning and end and giving details of degree of curvature, prescribed super elevation and length of transitions portion should be indicated.

vii) It should also indicate –

a) The position of all derailed vehicles and the marks left by them on sleepers / rails / ballast.

b) Point of mount with position of rail joints on either side.c) Point of drop.d) The pair of wheels of the first derailing vehicles.e) The position in which every displaced rail / wagon or part of a rail /

wagon and detachable components were found.f) In all cases dimensions from nearest kilometre post centre line of track

should be given.

viii) In case of accidents within station limits, sufficient details about the station lay out should be shown. The signal aspects at the time of accident should be correctly depicted.

ix) The distance of the site of accident from a permanent structure should also be indicated.

x) Any marks on sleepers or other track fittings should be clearly indicated in their exact position in relation to the track or vehicles.

xi) Broken parts or other extraneous material, if found of the site of accident, should be shown in the sketch, giving their precise position in relation to track.

xii) The sketch should be countersigned by Inspectors / Officers of other departments viz Operating, Mechanical and Signal & Telecommunication, present at the site of accident.

JOINT OBSERVATION AND MEASUREMENT OF TRACK

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Measurements and conditions of track over a distance of 50 metres on either side of the outermost point of derailment if the cause is indisputably known; if not known, over a distance of 90 metres in rear of the place where the derailment could reasonably be assumed to have occurred and 50 metres ahead. This should be signed jointly by Sr Subordinates of Engineering, Mechanical, Operating and Signal & Telecommunication departments present at the site of accident. Signature of Signal & Telecom department is not required if the accident occurs outside station limit.

Measurement of track is not required when the cause of derailment is obviously established as due to sabotage, obstruction on track, broken axle, and / or spring having fallen off prior to point of derailment.

Additional data regarding vertical track profile of one of the rails should be taken if the point of mount / drop is within 200 metres of the theoretical change of grade point and change of grades is 0.5% or more. These levels should be taken 20 metres apart and should extend for at least 200 metres in rear of the point of derailment they should be taken immediately after clearing the site of accident. (Proforma is in Annexure - I )

JOINT OBSERVATION AND MEASUREMENT OF LOCOMOTIVE

The joint observation should be recorded at the site of accident by Mechanical (Loco), Engineering and Operating Officials present at site and duly signed.

The joint measurement may be recorded at Loco / Diesel Shed.

This measurement is not required when it is indisputably established that the derailment was due to other than locomotive defects.

When the derailment is as a result of gauge widening the record of locomotive must be made even though they may not be involved. (See Annexure - II for proforma)

JOINT OBSERVATION AND MEASUREMENT OF ROLLING STOCK(CARRIAGE AND WAGON)

The joint observation of rolling stock should be recorded at the site of accident by Mechanical (C&W), Engineering and Operating officials present at site and duly signed.The joint measurement should be recorded on level track.

Measurement of vehicles is not required in the following cases –

a) Where vehicles have derailed due to locomotive derailment.b) When the first derailed vehicle is obvious from examination of works on

wheel, the details for first derailed vehicle need only be given.c) When the obvious and indisputable cause is sabotage or an obstruction on

track. (See Annexure - III for proforma)

JOINT OBSERVATION OF S & T INSTALLATION

The Officer or Sr Subordinate of S & T department with the Officer / Sr Subordinates of one or more department viz Traffic and Engineering shall take the joint notes on the S & T installation when nature of accident warrants. Such notes shall be taken before conducting any test. They should avoid interference with any

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clue without permission of the O.C. site. The following important items to be checked:-

Position of levers/switches/knobs in cabins/station to be recorded. Position of affected and neighbouring points. Obstruction test of the points to be carried out. After setting / closure of points / traps attempt to be made to alter it with

crow bar to confirm proper locking. Signal failure Register, Relay room / basement key Register and

Disconnection & Reconnection Memo book with Register to be seized. Aspects of various signals to be recorded. Line position – whether occupied or clear to be recorded. All dimensions in metric system. CSR of lines and sidings. Location of Block Instruments and their type. Track circuits and Axle counters used. Relay ends and feed ends of track circuits. SM’s slide control for individual signals/ routes. L.C.Gate : KM, Interlocked/ Non-interlocked, distance from fixed land mark,

width of LC, class of LC, Barrier or leaf gate, Telephone connected to cabin or station, whether controlled mechanically or electrically, warning arrangement.

Reverser operated/ motor operated signal. Actual distance between signals. Actual distance of Adequate distance. Type of lever frame/ panel. Gradient/ level posts. Detection chart. Aspect control chart in CLS territory Centre line of station building with its KM and distance from block station. Angle of crossing ( 1 in 8.5, 1 in 12 etc.). Catch/ Slip siding. CE’s Drg no. to which the signalling plan conform. Standard of interlocking and classification of station. Points / Trap indicators. Control telephone/ magneto phone. Culvert or bridge within station limit and distance. Warning board/ speed restriction boards.

Relay room/ panel:- Position of TPR, TR/HR, DR, ALSR, signal SR, slot relay, sectional route lock

relay, point latch relay, point operating/ indication relay for routes involved if feasible.

Status of SM’s key and crank handle. Seize SM’s key. Position of Operating buttons/switches and indication of signal, point, track,

route, control on siding points, slot etc on panel. Status of all emergency switches and reading of counters on panel. Loose wires or any other evidence of tampering in relay room/ cable

termination rack if feasible. Status of Relay room key. Seize the key and seal relay room.

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Status of handle, indications and counter reading on block instruments. Seize block instrument keys and double lock back cover keys.

Position of seals and padlocks on block instruments, HKT, SM’s locking box, SM’s electrical slides.

Condition of power supplies including fuses blown/ missing. Data logger, if any, to be analysed.

( See Annexure - IV for proforma )

OTHER CLUES TO BE COLLECTED

Train Passing documents such as Train Signal Register, SM’s Diary, Private No. Sheet, Caution Order Register, PLC Book, Line Clear Cancellation Register, Calling ‘On’ Signal Register, Disconnection & Reconnection Register / Memo Book etc. as the case may be; Signal failure register/ memo book.

All documents kept in maintenance room including circuit diagram. Gang chart, Gang diary, Patrol chart, Joint inspection book for points and

crossings. Speedometre chart of the loco involved in accident. The speedometer graph

should be opened by mechanical authority in presence of authorities of other departments like Engg and Traffic and duly signed.

All concerned accident message and Form G-3 issued by SM / PWI concerned.

Map showing jurisdiction of concerned Inspectors. Brake power certificate and train particulars of the accident involved train /

trains. PRO / PR schedules. Combined Train Report. Copy of Rough Journal and Control chart. Photo / Video. Extract of Coach Repair Register and Engine Repair Register. List of permanent and temporary speed restrictions in the section where

accident has occurred. Statement of staff concerned at the spot (accident site). Written evidence of members of public with their names and address, when

a passenger train is involved in the accident.

Note :- All gears should be sealed by pasting paper to preserve clues till joint recording of observations are taken and permission for operation/ restoration has been given. If possible, joint operations shall be supported by photographs.

IMPORTANT PARTICULARS TO BE FURNISHED IN THE SPECIAL REPORT

Accident at Level Crossings

a) When road vehicles are run into, particulars regarding number, position and damage to vehicles.

b) Whether the gates are manned or unmanned.

c) I) Whether the gates are provided with single leaf or double leaves. II) Whether the gate close across the rail and road or across the road

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only. III) Whether the gates are protected by signals and if so, give the description. IV) The normal position of the gates which are not protected by signal. V) Whether the gates are lighted at night and if so, how. IV) Whether on straight or curve.VII) Length of clear view obtainable on both directions both for road user and driver. VIII) Gradient if any both from rail and road side. IX) Whether the line is fenced or not. X) Whether the engine was fitted with electric head light. XI) Whether the Level Crossing is connected by bell or telephone with the adjacent block station. XII) Whether red discs are painted on the gates of the level crossing.XIII) Whether gates are opened / closed electrically or mechanically or by hand.XIV) Whether the gate is within or outside station limit. XV) Whether provided with road signs on road approaches.XVI) Whether whistle boards have been provided on either side.XVII) Whether speed breaker / rumble strips are provided and their condition.

Accident in which the question of signalling is particularly involved

i) Is the station interlocked? ii) If interlocked, what is the standard of interlocking? iii) Whether the signals are visible from the place from which they are operated.

iv) Whether the Home signal is visible from the Outer / Distant signal. If not, at what distance the Home signal is visible. v) What method of locking the points is in use? vi) Are the points provided with indicators / governed by Starter signals. vii) Jurisdiction of track circuit.

Parting of train

i) Gradient on which the train partedii) Number of vehicles on train in terms of unitsiii) Total tonnage of vehiclesiv) Tonnage behind breakagev) Type of couplingvi) Manufacturervii) Period in use viii) Train worked with vacuum / air pressure or non-vacuum / non-pressureix) Distance by which the rear parted portion rolled backx) Sequence of parting (during start, stop, on run)

Rail fracture

i) Length of rail ii) Weight per metre (Rail section)iii) Brand and stamp marks

iv] The distance, centre to centre of the sleepers on either side of the breakage and from each of these to the next sleeper

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v) The probable date the broken rail was laidvi) Information regarding the position of rail, description of ballast,

curvature of track etc.vii) A sketch to foolscap sizeviii) Last USFD test done & result of testingix) Whether the fracture is due to old flaw or fresh breakagex) The heaviest class of engine using the railxi) Ballast cushion and drainagexii) Last deep screening donexiii) Total GMT carried

xiv) Date of weldingxv) Inner / outer rail in case of curvexvi) Characteristic of trackxvii) Alignment – straight / curve & degree of curvature

Case of Fractures of axles of engine or vehicles

i) Drawing or sketch showing the position of fracture ii) Position and nature of fracture

iii) Stamps on the axle showing maker’s name, contact number, name of steel, date etc.

iv) If a vehicle axle, the diameter of broken journal; if an engine axle, Kilomtreage run.

v) Date of issue.vi) Last ultrasonic testing of axle

Case of breakage of journals of vehicles:

i) The last POH date of the vehiclesii) The tare weightiii) The carrying capacityiv) Actual weight of the commodity or Actual no. of passengers

SOME KEY POINTS ON INVESTIGATION OF DERAILMENT

In any accident investigation is derived from information and clues collected at the site of accident. The supervisors should pay proper attention while recording the parameters so that these may not become misleading or futile to find out the cause of accident.

Supervisors should record the track parameters quickly before making it fit for traffic or tampering with the clues.

A derailment may occur due to – mounting of wheel on the rail table and dropping – or – dropping of wheel on the ballast without travelling on the rail table.

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Some causes of derailment are discussed below:

Evidence from track markings at the point of derailment

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Wagon jumped from

No flange mark

Single flange mark

Several flange marks

Wheel dropped inside the track

Excessive cross level variation

Hot axle and axle journal failure

Sighting of the signals

No flange mark

Wagon jumped

Wrong marshalling of the vehicles

Mishandling of train by driver

Collapse of wagon

Failed spring

Spring plates missing

Fatigue flaw in plates

Locked axle

(Most important evidence is the length and nature of flange mark)

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Single flange mark

Full wagon examination Full track examination Examination of wagon load

Measurement of cross levels, gauge, top alignment & wear

Cant / gradient

Dips on the track

Nature and distribution of pay load

Identification of the first wheel set to derail

Tyre profiles, variation in flange wear,

indicating unusual

Amount of hollow wear

Very light gaugeVehicle hunting

Variation in spring camber on level track

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Several flange marks

Obstacle on track

Work done on track before accident / vandalism /

evidence of parts of load from previous wagons / trains fallen on the track

Wagon examinationCant gradient and/or dips

Work on track immediately prior to

derailment

Wagon examination

Track buckle or misalignment

Details of previous trains

Work on track immediately before the derailment

Wagon examination

Full track examination

SUDDEN DERAILMENT

It is characterized by no mark / short mark / just a scratch on the railhead edge. Possible causes-acting singly or in combination may be as follows:-

Sudden shifting of load Improperly loaded vehicles Speed in excess of MPS around a curve or turn out Resonant rolling, nosing or hunting Sudden variation in draw bar forces induced by a possible improper train

operation: braking or acceleration of 66

Wheel dropped inside

Serious track fault Axle broken

Full track examination

Gauge winded

Rail fracturedJournal broken

Wheel tyre worked out

Wheel disc shifted on axle

Full examination of fastenings

Broken wheels or axles Failure of vehicles or track components Obstruction on the track etc.

In case of sudden derailment, it is easier to arrive at the probable cause of the accident.

GRADUAL DERAILMENT BY FLANGE CLIMBING

It is characterized by a long mark on the rail table. In this case it is difficult to establish the cause. To arrive at the probable causes of derailment the site investigation should cover the following-

Identification and derailed and critical examination of the wheel marks on the rail head, fastenings, sleepers and ballast, the wheel trail marks and the corresponding marks on the wheel sets of the derailed and other vehicles to identify the wheel set which derailed first and to establish the initial point of derailment.

Derailed examination of wheel marks on the rail head, fastenings, sleepers and ballast at the initial point of derailment.

Investigation and recording of defects, condition and history of travel of the concerned rolling stock.

Investigation and recording of track particulars and track geometry. Dynamic behaviour of such rolling stock on above trade geometry. Investigation and recording of the operating features, and analysis of

the dynamic behaviour of the rolling stock in reference to the same. Any component or feature which bears evidence to the accident

occurrence has to be preserved at all costs. Accident sketch should be prepared with great care so as to show all the

relevant details of an accident site. The marshalling of the train applicable in the section.

COMMON CAUSES OF DERAILMENT

Rolling Stock

i) Wheel defects (Goods & Coaching stock)

Wheel gauge slack or tight. Tyre defect (thin flange, sharp flange, deep flange, flat tyre, false

flange / hollow tyre, radius too small at the root of the flange. Tyre loose, cracked or broken. Difference of wheel diameter on tread.

ii) Defects in Axle:-

Bent axle Breakage of journal due to Hot axle / Roller bearing failure Breakage of axle due to grazing the axle by falling down of brake riggings

on axle.iii) Axle box and axle guard defects:-

Hot box/ roller bearing seizure Axle guards rivets loose and axle guard shaking badly. Axle box broken / cracked, axle box cover / face plate deficient / broken.

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iv) Spring & Spring gears defect:- Difference in spring camber, Spring cracked / broken, Buckle loose / cracked / deficient, Packing plate loose/ deficient, Plate or buckle loose / displaced, Bearing spring buckle not sitting square, Incorrect type of bearing spring, Fractured / deficient of a rivet or fitted with a loose or of wrong size, Bearing spring hanger cracked or broken or nut or jib cotter deficient or

defective, Bearing spring shackle pin not fitted with a split cotter, Bearing spring eye or shackle plate touching the sole bar, Helical spring cracked / broken / shifted / fully compressed, Loss of elasticity of helical spring, difference in spring camber.

v) Jamming or hindrance against bogie rotation:- Uneven wire in pivot, Lack of lubrication, Ingress of dirt etc. between surfaces in contact.

vi) Defects in brake gears:- Pins securing the brake beam hangers and levers etc. get work out of

their brackets; Falling of the said parts on the safety brackets; These hanging parts may entangle in track structure, points & crossing

causing danger to the following wheels and trains; Dropping down of Brake block causing derailment.

vii) Defects in under frames:- Crack visible on both sides of the web or loose patch on any rolled or

pressed section or built up girder, Headstock bent and centre of the buffer face is displaced; Truss rod brackets deficient or fractured; Any member is broken/ twisted or displaced from its original position; Welding failure or crack on any part; Under frame is bent laterally or longitudinally.

viii) Defects in Draw and Buffing gear:-

BG:- Defects in draw gear may lead to train parting/ derailment; Draw bar or draw hook broken; Coupling screw broken/ threads failure; Clevis broken; Knuckle and CBC completely worked out due to support plate pin dropped

down; Buffer deficient; More than one dead buffer on two consecutive wagons on a train; More than three rivets or counter sunk bolts missing from a buffer plunger; Buffer spindle broken or nut deficient or of incorrect size; Difference of Buffer height beyond specified limits between two buffers etc.

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MG:- Wagon fitted with a buffer other than a screw coupling type; Buffer deficient / defective; One wing of buffer face cracked or missing if below level of the ‘U’ in

the buffer face; Buffer spring deficient / broken / incorrect size; Buffer coupling hook bolts not secured according to relevant Rules; Buffer shank worn more than limit; Buffer shank with nut, check nut, split pin or cotter deficient or of wrong

size etc.

ix) Defects in Trolley frame:- Trolley frame visibly out of square or damaged; Any member of trolley frame cracked or welding failed; Bolster or spring plank cracked or broken, or bolster improperly

secured; Bolster safety bracket cracked, broken or its pin or retainer deficient; Rocker bar / swing link broken and / or top or bottom arch bar

displaced, cracked or broken; Pivot plate / casting or pin broken; Cotter and / or nut deficient; Bolster rubbing block / plate ( on BEML ) deficient; Centre bearing carrier ( on BEML ) broken or cotter deficient ; S Swing bolt or its safety bracket ( on BEML ) broken or deficient anchor

link broken; Any safety strap bracket broken / wrong size, deficient or improperly

secured; Equalizing stay broken or deficient.

LOCOMOTIVES:

Defects in wheel sets; Defects in Axle BOX Assembly, horn guide assembly, spring gear, buffing

gear and brake gear; Deficient clearance and play at axle box level; Deficient surfaces of the centre pivot and the two side bearers for any

hindrance to bogie rotation; Spring loaded friction snubbers; Equalizing beams whether swivelling freely at their points of support on the

axle boxes etc.

OPERATING FEATURES:

Excess speed; Eccentric load or sudden shifting of load; Sudden application of brakes or tractive forces; Movement of 3-axled bogie on sags and humps; Wrong marshalling; Wheel slip on diamond crossing;

TRACK DEFECTS:

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Failure of formation: Subsidence of embankment, slope or base failure, slips, ballast pocket, cess heave, Mud pumping condition etc.

Failure of ballast: Inferior ballast, ballast of improper size, rounded ballast, deficient ballast profile, Deficiency in packing, over speed after deep screening etc.

Failure of sleepers: Development of ballast resistance ( soft / crib / shoulder resistance ), development of & Fastenings lateral track stiffness with torsional resistance of the fastenings, creeping of rail, overturning of rail, loose fastenings etc.

Failure of rails: Rail fracture, vertical / lateral / angular /multiple.

Irregularity in track: Excessive play between wheel set and the track, tight gauge, alignment irregularities,

Geometry: Twist in cross level, variation in alignment, unevenness and low joints.

Defects in curves: Excessive angular wear of outer rail due to centrifugal force, excessive flattening of head of inner rail, rail failure and fractures, gauge widening, track distortion, defects in check rail etc.

Defects in Points Defect in gauge at approach to the switch portion,and crossings: Tight gauge opposite to nose of crossing; Excessive

clearance of check rail opposite to nose of crossing; Defective track structure for turn in curves; Angular wear at the tongue rail Incorrect TNC to TNC (theoretical nose of crossing) distance of cross over; Defects in diamond crossing.

Defects in Girder bridge And L.C. approaches:- Sudden change in track modulus.

RELEVANT SECTIONS OF RAILWAY ACT, 1989 IN CONNECTION WITH ACCIDENT INQUIRY

113. Notice of Railway accident:-

(1) Where, in the course of working a railway,-(a) Any accident attended with loss of any human life, or with grievous hurt,

as defined in the Indian Penal Code (45 of 1860), or with such serious injury to property as may be prescribed; or

(b) any collision between trains of which one is a train carrying passengers; or

(c) the derailment of any train carrying passengers, or of any part of such train; or

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(d) any accident of a description usually attended with loss of human life or with such grievous hurt as aforesaid or with serious injury to property; or

(e) any accident of any other description which the Central Government may notify in this behalf in the Official Gazette, occurs, the station master of the station nearest to the place at which the accident occurs or where there is no station master, the railway servant in charge of the section of the railway on which the accident occurs, shall, without delay; give notice of the accident to the District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police, within whose jurisdiction the accident occurs, the officer in charge of the police station within the local limits of which the accident occurs and to such other Magistrate or police officer as may be appointed in this behalf by the Central Government.

(2) The railway administration within whose jurisdiction the accident occurs, as also the railway administration to whom the train involved in the accident belongs, shall without delay, give notice of the accident to the State Government and the Commissioner having jurisdiction over the place of the accident.114. Inquiry by Commissioner:-

(1) On the receipt of a notice under Section 113 of the occurrence of an accident to a train carrying passengers resulting in loss of human life or grievous hurt causing total or partial disablement of permanent nature to a passenger or serious damage to railway property, the Commissioner shall, as soon as may be, notify the railway administration in whose jurisdiction the accident occurred of his intention to hold an inquiry into the causes that led to the accident and shall at the same time fix and communicate the date, time and place of inquiry;Provided that it shall be open to the Commissioner to hold an inquiry into any other accident which, in his opinion, requires the holding of such an inquiry.

(2) If for any reason, the commissioner is not able to hold an inquiry as soon as may be after the occurrence of the accident, he shall notify the railway administration accordingly.

115. Inquiry by Railway Administration:-

Where no inquiry is held by the Commissioner under Sub-section (1) of Section 114 or where the Commissioner has informed the railway administration under Sub-section (2) of that section that he is not able to hold an inquiry, the railway administration within whose jurisdiction the accident occurs, shall cause an inquiry to be made in accordance with the prescribed procedure.

116. Power of Commissioner in relation to inquiries:-

(1) For the purpose of conducting an inquiry under this chapter into the causes of any accident on a railway, the Commissioner shall in addition to the powers specified in Section 7, have the powers as are vested in a civil court while trying a suit under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 (5 of 1908), in respect of the following matters, namely:-

(a) Summoning and enforcing the attendance of persons and examining them on oath;(b) Requiring the discovery and production of documents;

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(c) Receiving evidence on affidavits;(d) Requisitioning any public record or copies thereof from any court or office;(e) Any other matter which may be prescribed.(2) The Commissioner while conducting an inquiry under this chapter shall be deemed to be a Civil Court for the purposes of Section 195 and Chapter XXVI of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1974 (2 of 1974).

117. Statement made before Commissioner:- No statement made by a person in the course of giving evidence in an inquiry before the Commissioner shall subject him to, or be used against him in, any civil or criminal proceedings, except a prosecution for giving false evidence by such statement;Provided that the statement is:(a) made in reply to a question which is required by the Commissioner to answer; or (b) relevant to the subject matter of the inquiry.

118. Procedure etc:-

Any railway administration or the Commissioner conducting an inquiry under

this chapter may send notice of the inquiry to such persons, follow such

procedure, and prepare the report in such a manner as may be prescribed.

119. No inquiry, investigation, etc to be made if the Commission of

Inquiry is appointed:-

Notwithstanding anything contained in the foregoing provisions of the chapter,

where a Commission of Inquiry Act, 1952 (3 of 1952), to inquire into an

accident, any inquiry, investigation or other proceedings pending in relation to

that accident shall not be proceeded with and all records or other documents

relating to such inquiry shall be forwarded to such authority as may be

specified by the Central Government in this behalf.

120. Inquiry into accident not covered by Section 113:-

Where any accident of the nature not specified in Section 113 occurs in the

course of working a railway the railway administration within whose

jurisdiction the accident occurs, may cause such inquiry to be made into the

causes of accident, as may be prescribed.

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Appendix – IPermanent Way

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

SOILSL. No.

Type, e.g. sandy loam, clay, moorum, black cotton

etc.

Condition: Firm, Wet, Slushy etc.

Formation Rainfall

(01) (02) (03) (04) (05)-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

BALLAST

Types:

Sto

ne,

mooru

m,

sand,

ash

etc

. Depth below sleeper bottom in cms. Stating whether clean

or caked

Dra

inag

e

Pack

ing

loose

or

sound

Width of shoulder in com outside of:RAIL SLEEPER

Left Right Left Right

(06) (07) (08) (09) (10) (11) (12) (13)

SLEEPERS RAILSType: Wooden, CST 9, Steel through etc.

Condition: New, Second hand, damaged, unserviceable

Density Square or not

Weight Condition of wear(attach rail profile if wear is large)

(14) (15) (16) (17) (18) (19)

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Rail fastenings Rail jointsNumber per sleeper seat

Condition: Tight or loose

Condition: Hogged, battered, low etc.

Staggered or square

Extent of creep in the

effected Section

(20) (21) (22) (23) (24)

General remarks about

cracks or fracture of fishplates, fish bolts and other

components

Desdription of

antisabotage measures like welded rails, spot welding of

pendrol clip etc.

Location of point of mount

Location of point of dereailment

Wheth

er

on

stra

ight,

cu

rve o

f tr

ansi

tion

Wheth

er

on a

fa

llin

g g

rad

e,

level or

risi

ng

gra

de a

nd

on

sag.

Wheth

er

on

stra

ight,

cu

rve o

r tr

ansi

tion

Wheth

er

on a

fa

llin

g g

rad

e,

level or

risi

ng

gra

de a

nd

on

sag.

(25) (26) (27) (28) (29) (30)

Note: (i) Left and right are with respect to direction of train movement.

(ii) The data in column (2) to (25) need not be collected when the defect is

obviously and indisputably on account of sabotage and or major

obstruction on track.

(iii) Only broken track material which is not indisputably established to be

broken after the accident should be included in column (25) and should

be preserved.

(iv) Column (26) need be filled in only when there is a suspicion about

sabotage being the cause of derailment.

(v) Sag extends 60 metres on either side of theoretical junction of the grade

lines (columns 28 and 30).

(vi) Entry in case of columns 20 and 21 must invariably be filled for wooden

sleepers in case of derailment on curves indicating further whether

bearing plates were provided. of 66

Track Measurement

Station No Distance

apart in

metres

Gauge

slack or

tight from

the exact,

correct to

3mm

Cross level in mm

(+) high (-) low

Marks on

sleepers

or rail top

Grinding

or

rubbing

marks on

rails

Under no

load

condition

Under load

condition

(01) (02) (03) (04) (05) (06) (07)

VERSINE

On 20 m chord

measured at 10 m

interval depending on

practice prevalent on

the railway for that

curves

On 6 m cord, 3 m apart or

such shorter chord as

considered necessary for

sharp curves (Sharper than

30 on BG and MG)

Remarks regarding length of

transition, degree of curve

and specified super elevation.

general alignment etc.

(08) (09) (10)

Note:-

i) The point of mount should be marked station number 0 and the stations

numbered serially as (+) for measurements ahead of the site of derailment

and (-) for measurements in rear.

ii) The cross level will be measured as determined from the direction of

movement.

iii) Normally measurement will be taken at stations 3m apart for a distance of 45

meters on either side of ‘0’ station if the cause of derailment is indisputably

known, otherwise it will be taken for a distance of 90 meters in rear and 45

meters ahead of zero station.

iv) Where necessary, measurements for columns (3), (4) and (5) may in addition

be taken at individual sleepers.

v) This proforma need not be filled when the cause of derailment is obviously

established as due to sabotage, obstruction on track, broken axle, land / or

spring having fallen off prior to point of derailment.

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vi) Additional data regarding vertical track profile of one of the rails should be

taken if the point of derailment / mount is within 200 meters of the theoretical

change of grade point and change of grades is 0.5% or more. These levels

should be taken 20 meters apart and should extend for at least 200 meters in

rear of the point of derailment. They may be taken as early as possible after

the site of accident has been cleared.

APPENDIX – IIMeasurement table for wagon involved in accident

Note : Details regarding all derailed vehicles should be given except-(i) Where vehicles have derailed due to locomotive derailment.(ii) When the first derailed vehicle is obvious from examination of marks on wheel, then the derails for

derailed vehicle need only be given. (iii) When the obvious and indisputable cause is sabotage or an obstruction on track.

Date of incident

Train No.

Details of BPC along with the name of station where it is issued and Engineer (C&W) who issued it

Wagon No.

Type MechCode

Tare in Tonnes

Carrying capacity

Built Date Return date

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

To be signed by

Supervisor (C&W) Supervisor (Traffic) Supervisor (P. Way)

POH particulars ‘C’ Schedule/IOH particulars Type of brake Air/Vacuum

Position from Engine

Wheel & Axle face particulars(In case of breakage of any wheel/axle)

Date Shop Date Shop Axle face particulars

Ultrasonic particulars on the hub of the disc

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 181L 1L1R 1R2L 2L

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2R 2R3L 3L3R 3R4L 4L4R 4R

To be signed by

Supervisor (C&W) Supervisor (Traffic) Supervisor (P.Way)

WHEEL AND AXLEStamping particulars on wheel (regarding manufacture/RA/RD in case of breakage of any wheel/axle)

Wheel gauge in mm.(Taken in four places)

Any indication of bent axle or wheel having shifted on axle

Observation after measuring the profile with type defect gauge (Good/Rejected)

19 20 21 22

1

1L

1R

2

2L

2R

3

3L

3R

4

4L

4R

The wheel gauge is to be measured at the horizontal plane passing through the centre of axle.The wheel profile is to be checked with tyre defect gauge only (Ref: IRCA Pt IV Rule No 2.95, 3.2.2 and S 4.22.1, Plate No 45 to 53).

To be jointly signed by

Supervisor (C&W) Supervisor (Traffic) Supervisor (P. Way) of 66

Roller Bearing (When Roller Bearing is involved as cause)Condition of axle box, rear and front covers

Condition of face cover plate

Condition of locking plate and studs

Condition of Roller bearing and its components

23 24 25 26



Buffer height ( to be measured on a level

track in mm after uncoupling & rerailing)

Details of broken parts giving location w.r.t. point of mount and derailment & whether

breakage considered due to accident

Any other defect in the coach contributed to or caused the derailment

List of damages to the coach contributed to or caused the derailment

Other observations

27 28 29 30 3111L

11R

12L

12R



MEASUREMENT TABLE FOR COACH INVOLVED IN ACCIDENTNote: Details regarding all derailed vehicles should be given except:

(i) Where vehicles have derailed due to locomotive derailment,(ii) When the first derailed vehicle is obv9ious from examination of marks on wheel, then the details for the first derailed

vehicle need only be given,(iii) When the obvious and indisputable cause is sabotage or an obstruction on track.

SRNo

Date of incident

Train No

Details of BPC along with the

name of station where it is issued and Engr (C&W)

who issued it

Coach No

Type Mech Code

Tare in Tonnes

Carrying capacity

Built date

Return date

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

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POH particulars

POH particulars

Pay load in tonnes Commodity loaded

Station Position from Engine

Date Shop Date Depot From labels

From actual

Weighment

From To

12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21

Buffer height Wheel and axle face particulars (in case of breakage of wheel/axle)To be taken

after & rerailing on

the track

Axle face particulars

Ultrasonic particulars on the

hub of the disc

Stamping particulars on wheel disc regarding Manufacturer/ RA/ RD

22 23 24 251L 1L 1L1R 1R 1R2L 2L 2L2R 2R 2R3L 3L 3L3R 3R 3R4L 4L 4L4R 4R 4R



Wheel and AxleWheel gauge in mm. *(Taken at four places) Observation after measuring the profile with type defect gauge

(Good/ Rejectable)**26 27

1

2

3

4

* The heel gauge is to be measured in empty condition and at the horizontal plane passing through the cent of the axle.** The wheel profile is to be checked with type defect gauge only (Ref: IRCA Pt III Rule No.3.2.2.(d) and 4.18.1, Plate No.57 to 66).



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Axle box (For IRS stock only)(To be recorded only when failure of plain bearing is involved)

Brass thickness in mm Condition of box and brass

Condition of sole plate

Condition of journal Clearance between brass and collar of journal in mm

28 29 30 31 32



AXLE GUARD (For IRS stock only) to be recorded only when failure of plain bearing is involved as a cause

ROLLER BEARING(When Roller Bearing is involved as a cause)

Lateral clearance

between axle box and axle guard in mm.

Whether axle guard can work

clear of axle box

Are the axle guard bent or

otherwise damaged to prevent free movement of

axle box

Remark regarding bridle

bar

Condition of face cover

plate

Condition of locking plates &

studs

Condition of Roller bearing

and its components

33 34 35 36 37 38 39



Spring and Spring gear (for IRS stock only)

Any broken/ cracked/ missing shackle and shackle pin

Camber of spring in mm under tare after re-railing on a level uncanted track (for

laminated spring only)

Axle load

40 41 42



BOGIEVertical clearance at side bearers in mm (For stock having clearance type side bearers only)

Whether a load is placed on more than one wagon

Any other defect in vehicles which may have contributed to or caused the derailment

43 44 45

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Details of broken parts giving locations w.r.t. point of mount and derailment

List of damages to the wagon due to accident

Other observations

46 47 48



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APPENDIX – III

Locomotive (Diesel & Electric) : Pro-forma to be filled in case of accident derailment when loco is involved in accident

1. Basic information:

(a) Date of accident(b) Train No.© Loco class:(d) Loco No.:(e) Loco manufacture year and place:(f) Base shed loco:(g) Date & place last POH:(h) Kilometres earned after last POH:(i) Date & place of last major inspection:(j) Date & place of last schedule inspection:(k) Whether any schedules are overdue:

2.Give brief particulars of the safety items not provided or provided but missing / not working.

Whether Loco is provided with:

Safety fittings Provided WorkingHeadlightSpeedometerSpeed recorderFlasher lightHornBrake system

Particulars of electrical protection (for electric loco in case of fire only)

Relay Working /Not working /IsolatedEarth fault in auxiliary circuit (QOA)Over current in power circuit (QLM)Over current in rectifier block (QRSI)Earth fault in power circuit (QOP)Time lag relay (Q44)

3.(a) Damage to loco (brief description). ( b)Cost of damage to the loco (in Rs.)

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4.Check and record the observations as follows:a) Position of control handles, cut-out cocks etc. after the accident.b) Functioning of brake synchronising valve- whether working or not.

© Position of brake blocks after the accident- whether applied or not. (d) Condition of cattle guard. (e) Any sign of seizure of roller bearing in axle box. (f) Comments if any coil spring is broken or displaced. (g) Any other observation in respect to mechanical defect of the locomotive, which might have any bearing on safe running of loco.



Sl No

Description Observed value ( in mm.) Remarks

1 Diameter of wheel tread Left Right Wheel size below condemning limit is relevant only in case of wheel breakage due to lesser rim thickness.

123456

2 Wheel flange thickness 1 Information is normally relevant in case of two road case.2

3456

3 Wheel root wear 1 Tread wear should be measured from tread at 63.5 mm from wheel gauge face (from the back face if flange) in MG.

23456

4 Tread wear 1 Information is relevant in case of axis23456

5 UST of axle Give the date of last UST test done

Axle Observation123456

Note: 1. Wheel number one is the outer end axle of truck under the short hood and wheel count increases towards the long hood on diesel loco, where as for.Electric loco, wheel number one is the outer end axle under Cab-1(Cab-1 is that side of the loco which has the compressors and cab-2 is that side of the loco which has the ARNO converter) and wheel count increases towards the Cab-2.2.The measurements of wheels are to be done using wheel gauges to RDSO drawing No.SK. DL-3592 for all BG locomotives except WAP5 locos. For WAP5 locos RDSO’s drawing No.SKDL 4446 and SKDL 4447 may be followed.3. All measurements are to be taken in shed on a level, un-canted track.4. Service limits given in the Maintenance Manual are for good maintenance practice and these are not safety limits.

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Sl No.

Description Observed value (in mm) Remarks

1 Wheel Gauge:For checking wheel gauge, average of three measurements at equal spacing on the inner periphery of the two wheels on the same axle is to be recorded.

1 All measurements shall be taken on a level tangent un-canted track. These measurement are for unloaded wheels, should be taken in workshop after dismantling information is relevant in case of wheel disc shifting /bent axle only. For safety, similar limits as applicable for track gauge are relevant for wheel gauge also.

23456



6. Pro-forma for measurement of Electric and Diesel locomotive after accident.( Locomotives, which are not mentioned in this pro-forma, may be measured in similar manner)

Sl Description Observed value (in mm) Remarks1 Buffer Height All measurements shall be taken on a level tangent un-canted

track. The measurement is required to be taken only in case of trailing stock is with buffers.

2 Lateral clearance

End Axles (1,3,4&6)

Applicable for WDM2, WDM2c, WDG4, WDS6, WAM4, WCG2, YDM4, WCAM1, WCAM2, YDM4A, WDG2, WCAM3, WAG5, WAG9, WAG7, WAP1, WCAG1 & WAP4 locomotives

only.Middle Axle (2&5)

Applicable for WDM2, WDM2c, WDG4, WDS6, WAM4, WCG2, YDM4, WCAM1, WCAM2, YDM4A, WDG2, WCAM3,

WAG5, WAG9, WAG7, WAP1, WCAG1 and WAP4 locomotive only.

3 Lateral Clearances

End Axles (1,2,3&4)

Applicable for WDP1 & WP5 locomotive only.

4 Longitudinal clearances between axle box and pedestal liner-(for middle axle)

Applicable for WDM2, WDM2c, WDM5, WDS6, WAM4, WCE2, WAG5,YDM4,YDM4A, WDG2, WCAM3, WAG7, WAP4,

WDP1, WCAG1& WAP1 locomotives only

5 Longitudinal clearances between axle box and pedestal liner-(for middle axle)

Applicable for WAP3, WAP6, WDP2 locomotives only.

6 Height of Rail Guard from rail level



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APPENDIX – IVSignal & Tele-communications (Block)

Name of station / Cabin…………………….Block section System of train

working, Type of Block instruments

Position of block instrument

commutator / slide at both stations

Whether TSR taken in custody or not

Recorded entries in TSR of previous

three movements in either direction

Any discrepancy of overwriting noticed

in TSR

(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)

Whether Last stop signal is interlocked with block, if so any

defect noticed

Whether ESR or MSR provided & whether it was

working satisfactorily

Person manipulating block instruments B.S. Man or any

other unauthorised person

On single line token number and train number involved,

number of tokens in use on the section

Any other irregularity of block

working noticed

Remarks

(7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12)

Signal & Tele-communication (Points & Signals)

Particulars of damage Whether rod worked or D.W. worked or power

operated

Whether fitted with key lock or E.F.P.L.

Whether fitted with lock bar or provided with track

circuit

Whether fitted with linear detector or rotary

detector (direct detector) or rotary detector

(indirect detector) or electric detector

(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)

Position of levers of points and / or detector

Levers protecting the points involved

Noted dimension of point switch and lock slides

Last movement done over the point just before the accident and whether signalled or non-signalled

Position of signal arm and aspects displayed by signals concerned

(6) (7) (8) (9) (10)

Position of lock plunger whether fully plunged or otherwise with dimensions

Position of lock bar with reference to rail table with dimensions of clearance etc.

Damage to stretcher bar / lock bar/ detector rod etc. with sketches of components affected

Any other abnormal features of the components or assembly of point noticed with details of abnormal clearance if any

Any other abnormal feature of the signal fittings and components noticed with details

Remarks

(11) (12) (13) (14) (15) (16)

APPENDIX – V

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Check list for CRS Inquiry

01. Message is to be issued to all concerned to attend Inquiry along with relevant documents mentioning time, date and venue.

02. Notification in local news papers in all languages.03. Notification at nearest important stations.04. Letter to DC/DM, SP & OC/ Local Police.05. Festoons are to be displayed at the nearest important stations and at the place where Inquiry is to be held.06. Path indicator towards the Inquiry centre.07. Papers and clues to be preserved:-

i) Accident log from control office;ii) Control chart & FATO position;iii) Information from Traffic, Engineering, Mechanical(C&W), Mechanical(Loco), Electrical, Signal &

Telecommunication, Medical departments in prescribed format in six copies each;iv) Site plan;v) Site sketch;vi) News paper cutting regarding the accident;vii) Speedo graph;viii) Vehicle guidance;ix) Brake Power Certificate;x) Copy of Guard journal;xi) Caution Order;xii) Engine repair book;xiii) Working Time Table in force;xiv) Photograph / video graph of accident site;xv) Documents, Registers seized from station;xvi) Points & crossing Register;xvii) Gang chart/ Gang diary.

08. Bio data of witness.09. Statement of witness.10. Arrangement of Inquiry room.11. Arrangement of Xerox machine.12. Arrangement of computers for recording the question and Answer of witness.13. Arrangement of stenographers and interpreter/ assistant.14. Sitting arrangement for witness and others.15. Lodging arrangement.

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Witness No………..

BIO-DATA

1. Name of employee : 2. Father's name : 3. Designation : 4. Station : 5. Rate of pay : 6. Date of birth : 7. Date of appointment : 8. Date of retirement : 9. Date of promotions : 10. Date of last increment : 11. Date of next increment : 12. Date of last promotional : course attended 13. Date of last refresher : course attended 14. Date of next refresher : course due 15. Date of last PME : 16. Date of next PME due : 17. Previous punishment : if any 18. Whether promoted through : relaxed standard (SC/ST) 19. Last psychological test done : 20. Educational qualification : 21. Gradation : 22. Designation at the time of : appointment

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Witness No……….

DEPOSITION OF WITNESS NO.

Name :

Designation :

Scale of Pay :

Basic Pay :

Date from which in the :present grade

Date of birth :

Total length of service :

Length of service in the :present rank

Last P.M.E. held on :

Last refresher course :attended

I have been warned that I shall be subjected to disciplinary action if I do not tell the truth or attempt to conceal the facts into the inquiry.

Full signature of witness

Main statement

Damage & Disposition:

SL.NO COACH NO. DISPOSITION DAMAGES

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(Brief description)

MARSHALLING ORDER

Sl. No.

CoachNo.

Body Type Year ofBuilt

Date of last POH Date of Return

1. INFORMATION FURNISHED BY THE MEDICAL DEPARTMENT

1) Casualtya) No. of death :

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b) No. of grievously hurt :

c) No. with simple injury :

d) No. with trivial injury :

2) Timings of arrival of the first doctor Railway or otherwise at the accident site and other

doctors subsequently

3) Timings of

a) Receipt of accident message at the station where medical van is stabled

b) Despatch of medical van from that station:

c) Arrival of medical van at the site:

d) Departure of medical van with the injured from the site :

e) Arrival of medical van with injured at the hospital station

f) Admission of the patients into the hospital:

4) a) Details of the medical aid rendered and whether any surgical treatment restored at the site

b) Give reasons for delay in rendering medical aid.

5) Whether any pain relieving drug administered such as Morphia and if so, to how many

6) Disposal of the injured and the dead with timings.

7) List of casualties (dead/injured) with details (name their address and particulars of admission and discharge in various hospital till the date of inquiry.

8) a) Did you receive full cooperation from the doctors of Civil Hospital ?

b) If not, where as the failure

9) Whether the difficulties have been encountered while dealing with the injured.

10) Have you any suggestion to improve the method of rendering the medical aid to the injured ?

2. INFORMATION TO BE FURNISHED BY THE TRANSPORTATIONDEPARTMENT IN CONNECTION WITH ACCIDENT

1. ACCIDENT:-

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a) Date & Time of Accident :

b) Km. of accident, Station between :Section & Division

2. a) Speed of the train at the time of :accident

b) Time of departure & arrival of ill : fated train at the last three stations &last stopping station

c) Time when previous three trains passed : over the accident site

d) Was the ill fated train running late? if so :how much

3. Weather and visibility at the time of : accident

4. Capacity of the train and number of :passengers in occupation at the time ofaccident (as estimate)

5. a) First information about the accident, who: conveyed, how and at what time ?

b) Casualty details

c) How the injured passengers dealt with ?

d) Disposal of dead and injured with time of removal from site and admission in Hospital

6. ARME Van, Relief Trains and BD Van's: As per enclosed proformamovement (details to be furnished for each station)

7. a) Time of arrival of various officials :including Police, Magistrate who visited the site

b) Time of Police clearance :8. a) Interruption of Traffic: As detailed : below

Train Cancelled Train Terminated Detention of Trains

b) Time of clearance and through running : & first train passed over the accident

site track fit certificate was given

9. Passengers complaint if any, loss of property etc. how they have been dealt with ?

10. Guard's date of last vision test, refresher of 66

course passing and First Aid course

11. In case of accident at station, copy of SWR with Rule Diagram to be furnished

12. Details of any special dispensation obtained from CRS by the Administration and approved special instruction if any

13. Names & designation of AdministrativeOfficers, Police Officers attending CRS's inquiry to each date

14. Log of various activities undertaken by Rly. Administration arising out of the accident

15. Brief details of Ex-gratia payment arranged :

16. Bio-data of Traffic staff involved (date of : appointment, promotion, punishment and awards)

17. a) Enclose press cutting of news published in connection with the accident

b) Press Notification and advertisement issued inconnection with the inquiry

c) Message issued to the Police and Civil Authorityregarding accident inquiry

18. Whether any similar accident in the vicinity in thelast ten years

19. Do you suggest any improved method ofworking as a result of this accident.

20. Any further information Railway wants tosubmit.

SR. DIVISIONAL OPERATING MANGER COUNTER SIGNED BY DIVISIONAL RAILWAY MANAGER

3. INFORMATION TO BE FURNISHED BY THE CIVIL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT IN CONNECTION WITH ACCIDENT

1. a) Brief Description of damage to :P-Way

b) Cost of damage to P- way :

2. Description of site

a) Kilometre of site, in between stations, : sections, single/double line

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b) Civil District :

c) Nature of country around the site :(open, cultivated, plain/ undulating etc.) :

d) Direction of the track at site :(North to South etc.)

e) Straight, curve, gradients with distance :etc. in the vicinity (Index Plan and Section to be attached)

f) Height of bank/cutting :

g) Kind of soil :

h) Details of bridges and level crossing :within one Km. on either side of thesite (to the extent they are relevant to the inquiry)

3. Permanent Way

a) Rails: Weight :Length :Age :Wear :If welded, LWR, CWR, SWR :etc.

b) Sleeper :Type :Age :Density :

c) Fish Plates: Weight :Length :Number of holes :with dia

d) Fish Bolts: Weight :Length :Dia :

Whether any spring/other washers :used and number used per joint

e) Spikes: If wooden sleeper, number of :spikes on each sleeper, howmany inside and how manyoutside

f) Bearing : If used, type, number of :plates holes, weight etc.

g) Ballast Its kind, section, depth below :below sleeper in cubic metreper running metre

h) Policy followed in driving the keys :

i) Anti-sabotage measures adopted in the : of 66

vicinity

4. Kilometre & T.P. of important stations and :points of the section.

Number of T.P.s per kilometre :

How numbered (important stations and points : may be taken from the CRS)

5. a) Headquarters of:-

DEN/ I, II, III (as the case may be) :

AEN/ :

SE(P. Way) / :

JE (P. Way/ :

b) Gang Hd. Qrs. :

Jurisdiction :

Strength :

Location of Tool Box and Gang Hut :

c) Details of Casual labour employed :and discharged in the last 3 months

6. a) Maximum permissible speed on the :section

b) Permanent Speed Restriction in the : vicinity

c) Temporary Speed Restrictions in force :on the day of the accident in the vicinity

d) Were there any reports of over-speeding :in the recent ?

7. a) Whether monsoon patrolling has been :in force and if so, give details

b) Whether Security/Police patrolling :has been in force and give details

c) Further copies of Patrol Diagrams :

8. a) i) Creep :

ii) Extent of expansion gaps in :joints/Km. before & after thePoint of Accident

iii) Time when observations :have been made

b) Date when track was last attended to :around the accident spot and the details

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of work done

c) Dates when APWI, PWI, AEN & DEN : inspected the track last prior to the accident

If any defect had been noticed by them :

If so, give details and action taken if any :

d) If the track at site required frequent :attention in the past? Old record to be looked up and dates furnished with details of work done

e) Result of last run of Amsler/ Hallade : RTBC etc./TRC

f) Report of rough running by the driver :

9. Rainfall:

a) Record of last 3 months with the name : of the recording station and its distance

from the site

b) Daily record of seven days prior to :the accident

c) Comments on the rain-fall (compare : with mean rainfall)

10. Details of marks on rails, sleepers and whether : any indication of any destruction on line . Wheelmounted marks to be specifically noted

11. Site Plan (30 cm wide and length required) with :damaged vehicles etc. All measurements to be connected and gradient shown. (In case of an accident in yard, yard plan to be attached)

12. Produce the following registers relevant to the :inquiry:

a) Gang Chart/Diary

b) PWI's/AEN's Note Book of Inspection : c) Curve Register d) Creep Registere) Points & Crossing Register : f) Bridge Inspection Register : g) Section Register

13. Quote code rules, instructions in Way & Works :Manual and Circulars relevant to this accident

14. Enclose particulars of track jointly taken after : the accident

15. Were there any similar accident in the vicinity :in the last ten years

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16. What is the probable cause of the accident :according to you

17. Bio-data of the staff involved, dates of :appointment, promotion, punishments andawards.

18. Do you suggest any improved methods or : improvements may be furnished

19. In case of level crossing accidents the following : information may be furnished.

a) Number of trains and vehicles passing through : the level crossing on an average per day as per the census taken last (date of taking census maybe given)

b) A longitudinal section along the road : 20. Any other information Railway wants to furnish :

SIGNATURE & DESIGNATION OF THE OFFICER CONCERNED

4. INFORMATION FURNISHED BY MECHANICAL DEPARTMENT(C & W)

1. Damage & Disposition of the coaches:

SL.NOFROM ENGINE

COACH NO. DISPOSITION DAMAGES (Brief description)

1st

2nd

3rd

4th5th6th7th8th9th

2. Marshalling order of the train in the following form

Sl. No.

CoachNo.

Body Type Year ofBuilt

Date of last POH Date of Return

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3. a) Total length of coach/train excluding engine: mmb) Total weight of the train excluding engine: mts.c) Total brake force of the train excluding engine: tonsd) Whether fully vacuum braked or not:e) No. of brake cylinder per coach:f) No. of active/inactive cylinder on train :g) Percentage of brake power:

4. Cost of damage of the rolling stocks:

5. Position of brake block after accident:6. Maintenance place : Primary :

Secondary:

7. Quote instruction from manuals, conference rules &circulars relevant to the accident.

8. Bio-data of staff involved (Date of appointment,promotion, Punishment & Award):

9. Were there any similar accident involving thesame type of rolling stock in the last 10 years?

10. What is the probable cause of the accidentaccording to you ?

11. Do you suggest any improve methods of working or improvement to equipment as a result of this accident?

12. Particulars of annexure enclosed: a) True copy of BPC b) Joint measurement & observation of accident involved coaches c) Cost of damage calculation.

Sr Divisional Mechanical Engineer

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5. INFORMATION FURNISHED BY MECHANICAL DEPARTMENT (LOCO)

1. Loco particulars : a) Type :

b) Number (Model) :

c) Year & Place of manufacture :

d) Date of Commissioning :

e) Whether provided with Head- :Light, Flasher Light, Speedometer,Speed Recorder, Vigilance controldevice and whether they were inworking order?

f) Whether running engine short : hood leading/Long hood leading?

g) Length & Weight of the Loco

h) Braking force on the Loco & type of brake provided on theloco?

i) Date of last POH :

J) KM earned after last POH :

k) Date & Place of last trip examination :

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l) Whether any schedule is over due :

m) Comments on the brake available on the locomotive ?

2. Give brief particulars of the safety itemsnot provided but missing / not working

3. a) Damage to the Locomotive :

b) Cost of the damage to the :Locomotive

4. Engine diagram incase where Loco is derailed.

5. a) Position of the control handles regulatorsetc. after accident:a) Selector handle positionb) Reverser Handle positionc) A-9 Automatic handle positiond) Throttle handle position e) Emergency brake valve

b) Condition of the synchronizing valve workingor not working:

c) Position of brake valve after accident

6. Last eye test of the engine crew and next when due

7. Bio data of the engine crew (Date of appointment, promotion, punishment and awarded if any) :

8. Quote instruction from manual and circulars relevant to accident:

9. Submit the following:

a) Speed record chart

b) Brake power certificate issued to the Driver

10. Were there any similar accident involving the typeof Loco in the last ten years ?

11. What is the possible cause of the accident according to you ?

12. Do you suggest any improve method of workingor improvement to equipment as a result of thisaccident ?

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Sr. Div. Mechanical Engineer N.F. Railway, Division

6. INFORMATION FURNISHED BY SIGNAL & TELECOMMUNICATION (S&T) DEPARTMENT

01. Damage to S&T assets :a) Brief Description :b) Cost of Damage :

02. A detail note on Signalling and Interlocking : arrangements in the Area and at the station in case of yard accident.

03. Head Quarters, Jurisdiction of Signal : Maintenance staff including Officers.

04. In case of accident in a yard Signalling planof the yard to be furnished.

05. Date of last overhaul of Block Instrument, : Lever Frame etc.

06. a) Date of last testing by inspector: :ASTE/DSTE/SR. DSTE, prior to the accident

b) Result of their tests and action taken :

07. a) Details of signal failures at the station in the : last 3 months.

b) Details of unsafe failures

c) Produce the relevant Register for Scrutiny :

08. Instructions from Signal Engineer Signalling : Plan of the yard to be ring etc. and circulars pertaining to the accident may be quoted.

09. Bio-data staff involved ( date of appointments, :promotion,, Punishment and Award)

10. a) What are the possibilities of failure of S&Tequipment in the case.

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b) How do you eliminate these possibilities?

11. Were there any similar accidents involving signalling: in the last ten years, give details.

12. Do you suggest any improved methods of workingof improvements to equipment as a result of this

Sr. DSTE/ N.F. RAILWAY/

7. INFORMATION FURNISHED BY ELECTRICAL DEPARTMENT

1. O H E

a) Timing of power supply interruption & shut down:

b) Action taken to sufeguard passenger

c) Record of last inspection of OHE

2. COACHES

a) Condition of electrical equipment

b) Particulars of electrical protection

c) Record of last inspection

d) Whether supply for fans and lights was switched on

3. DAMAGES:

Brief description of damages.

Cost of damages:

4. What is the cause of the accident accordingto you ( in case like fire etc.) :

5. What are the code rules, circulars pertinent to this accident

6. Bio-data of staff involved

7. Were there similar accidents in last ten years : involving electrical equipment, give details

8. Do you suggest any improved methods of working : or improvements to equipments as a result of thisaccident.

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DIVISIONAL ELECTRICAL ENGINEER N.F. RAILWAY/ /DIVISION

Witness No.

Name

Designation

Total length of service



Main statement

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Witness No……….

DEPOSITION OF WITNESS NO.

Name :

Designation :

Scale of Pay :

Basic Pay :

Date of birth :

Total length of service :

Length of service in the : present rank

Last P.M.E. held on :

Last refresher course : attended



Main statement

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LIST OF WITNESSES TO BE CROSS EXAMINED ON :

1.

2.

3.

4.

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Sl No Contents Page No1 Introduction 012 What is an Inquiry 013 Object of Inquiry 014 When Inquiry is held 015 Type of Inquiry into Accidents 026 Level of Inquiry 027 Schedule for Inquiry 038 Commission of Inquiry 049 CRS Inquiry 0410 Magistrate Inquiry 0411 Judicial Inquiry 0512 Police Investigation 0513 Joint Inquiry 0614 When Joint Inquiry may be dispensed with 0715 Method of conducting Joint Inquiry 0716 Specimen Form ACDT-1 to 19 08 to 1417 Signing of Joint Inquiry proceedings 1418 Departmental Inquiry 1419 How to prepare sketch of Accident site 1520 Joint observation and measurement of track 1521 Joint observation and measurement of locomotive 1622 Joint observation and measurement of rolling stock 1623 Joint observation of S&T installation 1624 Other clues to be collected 1825 Important particulars to be furnished in the special report 1826 Some key points on investigation of derailment 2027 Some causes of derailment 2128 Common causes of derailment 2529 Relevant sections of Railway Act, 1989 in connection with Accident Inquiry 2830 Appendix – I 3131 Appendix – II 3432 Appendix – III 4033 Appendix – IV 4334 Appendix – V 44

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KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND DESIRE ARE

THE KEY POINTS OF POSITIVE HABIT. IN EVERY PERSON THE BEST IS

THERE, OUR J OB IS TO RECOGNISE IT. DON’T FEAR MISTAKES; FEAR ONLY

THE ABSENCE OF CREATIVE, CONSTRUCTIVE AND CORRECTIVE RESPONSES TO THOSE MISTAKES.

BE PROACTIVE INSTEAD OF

REACTIVE. ATTENTION TO SAFETY RULES WILL

MAKE US ACCIDENT FREE. WHERE SAFETY ENDS, ACCIDENT

BEGINS. THE BEST SAFETY DEVICE IS A

CAREFUL MAN. A MANAGER CANNOT BE EFFECTIVE

WITHOUT LEADERSHIP.

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Accident Inquiry Guidelines

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