Fogged Journeys: Trains Crawl Across India
Dense fog gripping large parts of northern and eastern India has thrown Indian Railways’ schedules into disarray, leaving thousands of passengers stranded at stations. Major trains, including the Rajdhani Express and Shatabdi Express, reported delays ranging from two to ten hours.
Passengers traveling for work or family visits voiced frustration over prolonged waiting times, with some stranded at stations overnight. "We expected delays, but not this chaos. The Railways must prepare better for winter," complained Sunita Verma, a daily commuter.
Railway officials cited poor visibility, which dropped below 50 meters in key regions, as the main cause of the delays. To prevent accidents, trains were operated at reduced speeds, following strict safety protocols. "Safety cannot be compromised, but we understand the passengers’ hardships," stated a senior Railway official.
However, the recurring nature of such disruptions raises questions about the Railways' preparedness. Experts suggest adopting advanced fog-sensing technology and installing anti-fog lighting systems on tracks to mitigate such issues in future.
The Indian Railways’ inability to ensure timely travel during predictable weather patterns has fueled public discontent, especially among those dependent on trains for daily commuting. Passengers demand a long-term solution to improve operations during foggy months.
With the winter season just beginning, the Railways faces an uphill task of ensuring smoother journeys while prioritizing safety. The fog may lift, but the shadow of inefficiency looms over India's lifeline.
