PALAKKAD: To evaluate preparedness for efficient rescue and relief operations during train accidents, a joint mock drill was conducted by the Railways and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) at the Shoranur Junction railway station. The exercise was organized jointly by the Palakkad Division of Southern Railway and the 4th Battalion of the NDRF, Arakkonam, on Thursday.
Various departments and volunteers—including the Railway Protection Force (RPF), Government Railway Police (GRP), Kerala Fire and Rescue Services, Kerala Police, Revenue Department, Health Department, Railway Civil Defense wing, and the Bomb Detection and Dog Squad—participated in the drill. The mock drill commenced at 9:05 AM, based on a simulated alert that train number 06650 had met with an accident at Shoranur Junction.
Simulated Disaster Scenario and Rescue Operations
According to the scenario, the fourth general coach derailed and capsized, while the fifth S10 coach derailed and mounted on top of the general coach. A simulated fire outbreak was also created at the rear end of the S10 coach and the front end of the adjoining S9 coach. Upon receiving the alert, railway and NDRF rescue teams rushed to the spot, and an Accident Relief Train (ART) was deployed.
As part of rescuing trapped passengers, specialized cutting operations were carried out to slice open the damaged coaches and extract people. This operation was jointly executed by the Railway Mechanical Department and NDRF personnel. The Kerala Fire and Rescue Services carried out firefighting operations, while doctors from the railway hospital and health department officials administered first aid to the injured.
Authorities Say Exercise Helps Improve Coordination
The mock drill concluded at 11:45 AM. Addressing the participating teams and the public, Palakkad Divisional Railway Manager Madhukar Raut expressed satisfaction with the successful execution of the drill. He stated that the Railways has a comprehensive disaster management plan in place to handle emergency situations in coordination with civil authorities.
Southern Railway Principal Chief Safety Officer T.P. Singh, Palakkad Divisional Safety Officer Benny Varghese, various railway officials, and Revenue Department officials led by the Ottapalam Deputy Tahsildar also participated in the exercise. The mock drill served as an effective platform to enhance coordination among the Railways, the NDRF, and state government departments.
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