The presence of mind and alertness of railway employees, especially of those working in the field, have averted possible mishaps in the past saving thousands of passengers’ lives.
In one such incident that happened on 19th June 2021, A.Vadivel working as Keyman at Kavanur railway station (Katpadi Unit/Chennai Division of Southern Railway) showcased exemplary vigilance and devotion to duty. While on regular patrol duty, he identified a weld failure on the tracks at Km 143/28-30 in Latteri –Kavanur Down line section around 09:55 hours of 19th June 2021. Train No.06079 Chennai – KSR Bengaluru Special train running at 90 Kmph was expected to approach the spot in few minutes. Gangman Vadivel was quick to react and ran in the direction of the approaching train for about 500 metres displaying banner flag danger signal.
Loco Pilot of Chennai – KSR Bengaluru Special,SKK Moideen, on noticing the danger signal applied emergency brakes and stopped the train. The matter was immediately reported to railway authorities and the engineering team attended to the rail fracture and restored the tracks. The train safely crossed the spot at 11:33 hours.
Railways has the rich tradition of honouring these unsung heroes whose commendable work saved thousands of passengers’ lives in the past. John Thomas, General Manager, Southern Railway felicitated A.Vadivelu and presented him a cash award and merit certification.
Gandhiji’s photo from III rd class compartment may be encouraged in the office chambers to remind at least the aspect of simple living which is our heritage.
In all critical situations, many a times the Railwaymen showed exemplary sense of duty.