Railway officers to be trained in disaster management; academy, institute to give training

• Following the Odisha train tragedy, the Ministry of Railways has introduced mandatory disaster management training for railway officers.
• Objective: To enhance disaster response and address shortcomings identified in the investigation of the Odisha incident.

Training Incorporation

• Disaster management is now an integral part of the training module for railway officers at the induction/foundation course level.
• It is also included in refresher or mid-career training programs for continuous skill development.
• Following organisations will collaborate to impart the comprehensive training program.
  • The National Academy of Indian Railways (NAIR) in Vadodara
  • The Indian Railway Institute of Disaster Management (IRIDM) in Bengaluru

Enhanced Emphasis on Disaster Management

• The decision follows recommendations from the Commissioner of Railway Safety, who investigated the Odisha train accident.
• He emphasized the need for faster initial responses to disasters.
• He also called for a review of the railway's coordination with disaster management agencies.

The Concerns

• The Railway Board has instructed NAIR to transfer all its assets, including buildings and infrastructure, to the Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV).
• It has led to confusion among training institutes’ Directors-General/ Directors.
• It also raises questions about the approval process for training programs and the role of the Vice-Chancellor of GSV.

Current Railway Response Focus

• The railways have Accident Relief Trains stationed at major junctions across the network.
• They are equipped with manpower and resources to reach accident sites promptly.
• However, the primary focus has traditionally been on restoring rail traffic, with reliance on state and central agencies for relief and rescue operations.

Prelims Takeaway

• Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV)
• Disaster Management Training