Internet Cable Fall Halts Chennai Suburban Trains, Strands Commuters
Hundreds of commuters faced significant disruptions on Saturday evening as suburban train services between Chennai Beach and Tambaram were abruptly halted. The disruption occurred when an internet cable fell onto the overhead equipment (OHE) line, which supplies power to the trains, between Saidapet and Guindy railway stations.
Immediate Response and Safety Measures
Railway officials reported that a loco pilot noticed the internet cable dangling dangerously over the 25kV OHE line. In response, power was immediately cut off to prevent any potential hazards. A specialized team was swiftly dispatched to remove the cable, as there was a high risk of electrocution if anyone came into contact with it while it was touching the high-voltage line. This emergency intervention caused a delay of nearly 40 minutes for all affected services.
Following thorough safety checks, train operations were successfully restored after 5:30 PM. However, the incident has sparked concerns about recurring safety issues in the area.
Concerns Over Illegal Cable Installations
Dayanand Krishnan, a resident-activist, highlighted a persistent problem, stating, "Most internet cables are illegally installed by private operators. The government must implement a standard operating procedure to address this. With cables dangling at Mambalam and St Thomas Mount stations, this problem is likely to recur unless strict measures are taken."
Echoing these concerns, Southern Railway chief public relations officer Senthamil Selvan emphasized, "Southern Railway has not authorized any internet cables on railway premises. We are committed to removing all unauthorized cables soon to ensure passenger safety and prevent future disruptions."
Broader Implications and Calls for Action
This incident underscores the urgent need for better regulation and enforcement regarding cable installations near critical infrastructure like railways. The disruption not only inconvenienced hundreds of daily commuters but also raised alarms about potential electrocution risks and the reliability of public transport systems.
Authorities are now under pressure to accelerate the removal of unauthorized cables and establish clear guidelines to prevent similar occurrences. As urban areas continue to expand, ensuring the safety and efficiency of transportation networks remains a top priority for both officials and the public.
