As the winter season brings dense fog and challenging weather conditions to several parts of North India, the Ministry of Railways has introduced innovative Fog Pass Devices across its network. This technological advancement aims to ensure smooth train operations, reduce delays, and enhance overall passenger safety during foggy weather, especially in the northern regions of the country.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted dense fog days over the upcoming week in various parts of east, northwest, and north India, including the Delhi-NCR region. Recognising the impact of severe cold wave conditions on rail services, Indian Railways has proactively introduced 19,742 Fog Pass Devices to navigate through foggy weather efficiently.
What is a Fog Pass Device?
The Fog Pass device is a GPS-based navigation tool which aids locomotive pilots in ensuring smooth rail traffic operations during dense fog weather conditions. This cost-effective and portable device offers real-time information through display and voice guidance, informing the loco pilot about signal locations, level crossing gates, permanent speed restrictions, neutral sections and more.
Some of the salient features of the Fog Pass Device include its suitability for all types of rail sections, compatibility with various locomotives and train types, support for speeds up to 160 km/h, a built-in rechargeable battery backup lasting 18 hours, portability with a lightweight and compact design (not exceeding 1.5 kg), and a robust standalone system resistant to weather conditions like fog, rain, or sunshine.
The introduction of Fog Pass Devices reflects Indian Railways’ dedication to enhancing passenger safety and operational efficiency, particularly in adverse weather situations. This initiative is poised to minimise disruptions, improve reliability, and ensure a safer travel experience for passengers relying on the rail network during winter.
What are the key features of Fog Pass device?
GPS-Based Navigation: The Fog Pass Device operates on GPS technology, providing real-time information to loco pilots during dense fog conditions.
On-Board Information: It offers on-board display as well as voice guidance to loco pilots regarding the location of fixed landmarks, such as signals, level crossing gates (manned & unmanned), permanent speed restrictions, and neutral sections.
Approach Indications: The device displays approach indications of the next three fixed landmarks in geographical order, accompanied by a voice message approximately 500 meters before approaching.
Zonal Distribution: Fog Pass Devices have been provisioned across various Zonal Railways, with each zone receiving a specific number of devices based on operational requirements.
How many Fog Pass devices have been installed by Indian Railways so far?
According to the press release issued by the Indian Railways on Wednesday, the national transporter has installed 19,742 Fog Pass Devices across zones. Here is Indian Railways’ zonal distribution of fog pass devices –
- Northern Railway: 4,491 devices
- South Eastern Railway: 2,955 devices
- East Central Railway: 1,891 devices
- North Eastern Railway: 1,762 devices
- Others: Distributed among different zones