Why Unmanned Rail Level Crossings Remain a Persistent Issue: A Comprehensive Analysis

India’s railway network remains vulnerable due to the presence of approximately 3,400 unmanned level crossings. Despite the government's ambitious target of eliminating these hazardous crossings by 2020, the reality on the ground suggests that this goal is yet to be fully achieved. The primary reason for this delay is multifaceted, going beyond just budget constraints.

Budget Constraints and Fixed Yearly Allocation

One of the most cited reasons for the slow progress is the financial limitation. The railway budget has a fixed yearly allocation which makes it challenging to allocate resources to the removal of unmanned level crossings on a larger scale. Other pressing issues such as safety, security, and food require significant funding, which further complicates the allocation of resources.

Low Worker Efficiency and Human Factors

Low efficiency on the part of workers and personnel such as signal managers and divisional engineers contributes significantly to the delay. Poor planning and low personnel motivation hinder the timely completion of projects. Even non-metallic roads, which do not require transformation, complicate the process because they often trick monitoring systems into thinking that there are active crossings, causing unnecessary delays.

Corruption and Political Influences

Moreover, political influences and corruption play a significant role. Despite having substantial financial resources available, a large portion is diverted into unnecessary and wasteful activities, including election funding. This diverts much-needed funds from critical infrastructure projects such as the removal of unmanned level crossings.

Raising Public Awareness and Imposing Penalties

To address this issue effectively, the government must take several steps. Firstly, increasing public awareness about the importance of relocating and upgrading unmanned level crossings can help garner more pressure for change. Secondly, stringent penalties on officials who fail to meet deadlines and inadequate resources can motivate better performance.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

Achieving a safer railway network by removing unmanned level crossings is no small task. It requires a concerted effort from the government, stakeholders, and the public. By addressing the underlying issues of budget constraints, worker efficiency, and political influences, India can make significant strides towards ensuring the safety of its residents and enhancing its transportation infrastructure.