Automatic Block Signals in Railways
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Automatic Block Signals in Railways

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Questions and Answers

What is the minimum clear distance required when taking off a Home signal according to the specified rules?

  • 120 metres (correct)
  • 150 metres
  • 100 metres
  • 200 metres

    • Under what condition can a Last Stop signal be taken off for a train?

  • When the line is clear up to the next signal or the next is a Manual Stop signal. (correct)
  • Only when the line is clear up to the next Automatic Stop signal.
  • When the route is properly maintained regardless of signal conditions.
  • When the direction of traffic is established but the line is obstructed.

    • If the Home signal is defective, which action should the Station Master take?

  • Authorize the Loco Pilot by removing the Calling-on signal. (correct)
  • Switch to manual operation without further instructions.
  • Allow the train to pass with a warning horn.
  • Send a message to the nearest block station.

    • What substitute may be used in place of the adequate distance for a Home signal?

    <p>A sand hump or a derailing switch</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should happen when the Last Stop signal is defective?

    <p>The Automatic Block Working shall be suspended.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which component is NOT considered as an additional fixed signal in Automatic Block territory?

    <p>Whistle board</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of a Station Master when dealing with defective signals?

    <p>To facilitate communication and ensure trains arrive complete.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following distances is NOT mentioned as adequate for a Last Stop signal?

    <p>150 metres</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must the Station Master do before authorizing any shunting into the block section?

    <p>Ensure the block section is clear and exchange messages with the station in advance.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the Station Master need to cancel after ensuring the complete arrival of the train?

    <p>The 'block forward' authorization.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of the Guard or competent railway servant during shunting operations?

    <p>To supervise the shunting and accompany the train.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When is shunting within the station section generally permitted?

    <p>Under specific local conditions regarding gradients and visibility.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of the Authority T/806 in the shunting process?

    <p>To authorize the Loco Pilot to pass LSS at ‘on’ with a Private Number.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is required before the resumption of normal working after a track obstruction?

    <p>Written certificate from a responsible Engineering official</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be used to notify other stations after receiving clearance for normal working?

    <p>Exchange of Private Numbers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should all entries regarding train working be recorded during operation?

    <p>In red ink</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who is responsible for scrutinizing records related to temporary single line working?

    <p>The Traffic Inspector</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the minimum rank of the Engineering official required to certify that the unobstructed line is safe for passage?

    <p>Inspector</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the event of failing signals and communication, how is the direction of traffic established?

    <p>By sending the light engine/train engine in order of preference</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which option represents the correct sequence of actions during single line working after track obstruction?

    <p>Certify safety, inform Station Master, open communications</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be done within seven days of resuming normal working?

    <p>Detailed report submission to Sr.DOM / DOM</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of introducing temporary single line working immediately after an obstruction?

    <p>To manage rail traffic efficiently</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of records must be retained at the station regarding temporary single line working?

    <p>Records related to temporary single line working</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the first piece of information a Station Master must provide to the other end when introducing temporary single line working?

    <p>Cause of introduction of single line working</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be assured by the two Station Masters before requesting line clear for the first train running in the wrong direction?

    <p>All trains running in the right direction have already arrived complete</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a means of communication to obtain Line Clear?

    <p>Two-way radios</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What document must be provided to the Loco Pilot for the first train running in the wrong direction?

    <p>Both A and B</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should the Station Master ensure regarding level crossings before giving authority to the Loco Pilot?

    <p>They are closed</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following must be reported to the Station Master at the other end when introducing single line working?

    <p>Last train timings from the block station</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens when a Station Master proposes temporary single line working?

    <p>Communication is established under a Private Number</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is NOT required to be included in the message sent to the other Station Master?

    <p>Upcoming train schedules</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which option describes the recommended order of priority for obtaining Line Clear?

    <p>Station to station fixed telephones, railway auto-phone, control telephone, VHF sets</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements is true regarding the temporary single line working process?

    <p>Acknowledgment from the other Station Master is necessary.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must accompany the motor trolley when it is used for opening communications?

    <p>Guard or Assistant Station Master</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the 'Authority for opening communication during total interruption of communication' NOT include?

    <p>Authority to speed up to 30 KMPH</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the maximum speed allowed over straight sections with a clear view according to the Caution Order?

    <p>15 KMPH</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which condition applies when approaching or passing portions of the line with an obstructed view?

    <p>Speed must not exceed 10 KMPH</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of message must be sent to request Line Clear for a train waiting to be dispatched?

    <p>A line clear enquiry message</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does a conditional line clear message allow the Station Master to do?

    <p>Return a light engine or train engine</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must the Authority T/A.912 authorize the Loco Pilot/Motorman to do?

    <p>Pass Automatic signals intervening at ‘on’</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following types of signals must the Loco Pilot observe rules for passing if authorized?

    <p>All types of signals</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the speed restriction over facing points according to the given authority?

    <p>15 KMPH</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What information must be included in the Caution Order regarding line operations?

    <p>The kilometers between which obstruction exists</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What document is given to the Loco Pilot as authority to proceed with the Light engine or train engine returning?

    <p>Conditional Line Clear ticket (T/G.602 up or T/H.602 down)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When trains are in the wrong direction, how are they authorized to start from the despatching station?

    <p>With a Pilot-Out memo</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What critical information must be included in a Caution Order?

    <p>Temporary restriction of speed and obstructed kilometers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must the Station Master send to the block station in rear when awaiting a response for a waiting train?

    <p>A Line Clear enquiry message (T/E.602)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should the Loco Pilot do if all points are set and locked for the wrong line operations?

    <p>Proceed with caution at speeds not exceeding 15 KMPH</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the maximum speed allowed for a Loco Pilot when visibility is impaired?

    <p>10 Kilometres an hour</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action must a Loco Pilot take when encountering an Automatic Stop signal with an 'A' marker at 'on'?

    <p>Stop the train in the rear of the signal and wait</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How often must competency certificates for Guards and Loco Inspectors be renewed?

    <p>Every six months</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following includes a requirement for issuing competency certificates?

    <p>A one-day orientation course</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What responsibility does the Guard have when the train stops at an Automatic Stop signal?

    <p>Show a Stop hand signal towards the rear</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Under what conditions can a Loco Pilot seek assistance from the Guard?

    <p>When visibility is compromised and lacking an assistant Loco Pilot</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements about Modified Semi-Automatic Stop signals is accurate?

    <p>They are not available on the South Central Railway</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be maintained by the DOM, DME, and DEE regarding competency certificates?

    <p>A record of competencies issued</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the minimum distance a loco pilot must maintain after passing an Automatic Stop signal at 'on' for trains other than EMU?

    <p>150 metres or two clear OHE masts</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which situation can the distance requirement after passing an Automatic Stop signal be reduced to 75 metres?

    <p>When the leading train is an EMU</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should a loco pilot do during special circumstances like floods or dense fog after passing an Automatic Stop signal?

    <p>Ensure visibility of the flashing tail lamp of the preceding train</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action should the guard of a train take when it has halted and requires a relief engine?

    <p>Assist the relief engine crew</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How fast should a loco pilot proceed when observing conditions that necessitate maintaining a reasonable distance behind another train after an automatic stop signal?

    <p>Not exceeding 10 kmph</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the adequate distance a loco pilot must keep in normal operations after passing an Automatic Stop signal, if the train is not an EMU?

    <p>150 metres</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What additional responsibility does a guard have when his train is halted, apart from ensuring its safety?

    <p>To guide the relief engine crew</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main reason for adjusting the required distance between trains in special weather conditions?

    <p>To account for visibility issues</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What constitutes an obstruction that loco pilots should be cautious of while proceeding after passing an automatic stop signal?

    <p>Static maintenance vehicles on the tracks</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must a loco pilot control to adequately stop short of a train or obstruction when moving at a slow speed?

    <p>Speed of the train</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary action the Loco Pilot must take upon approaching the station ahead in the event of a signal failure?

    <p>Act according to the signal aspect</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be done to all points within the affected area before any train is allowed to enter the interrupted section?

    <p>Set and lock them correctly</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should the Station Master do when all communication means have failed?

    <p>Stop any entering train until further notice</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should records related to train operations in the affected section be maintained?

    <p>Recorded in red ink in the TSR</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should the SCOR be informed about the resumption of normal train operations?

    <p>By sending a private number exchange</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What timeframe is given for the Traffic Inspector to scrutinize records after normal working resumes?

    <p>One week</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the case of signal failure, what is the role of the Guard or Motorman prior to entering an affected section?

    <p>To wait for the Station Master's instructions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action is taken once the signals are restored after a failure?

    <p>Resumption after ensuring clearance is communicated among station masters</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of ink must be used for recording train movements during a signaling failure?

    <p>Red ink</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should not be done if the signals fail and all communication means are not available?

    <p>Allow unrestricted movement of trains</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What speed must be adhered to when approaching a curve or obstruction according to the Caution Order?

    <p>10 KMPH</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is included in the authority for opening communication during total interruption?

    <p>An authority to proceed without Line Clear</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When sending a line clear enquiry message, which Station Master is it addressed to?

    <p>The Station Master of the block station at the other end</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the conditional line clear message allow the Station Master to do?

    <p>Return the light engine attached to a train waiting to be dispatched</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What information must be specified in Authority T/A.912 regarding signals?

    <p>The individual distinguishing numbers of all relevant signals</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What accompanies the motor trolley when it is used for opening communications?

    <p>An Assistant Station Master</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be included in the Caution Order when opening communication?

    <p>The route length between obstructions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What condition is applicable when passing signals in the 'on' position?

    <p>Loco Pilot must follow specific hand signals from a Pointsman</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a specified speed limit mentioned in the authority for communication opening?

    <p>Maximum speed on curves limited to 20 KMPH</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must the Loco Pilot adhere to when passing an Automatic signal under the authority given?

    <p>Follow hand signaling provided by authorized personnel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be done by the Guard or Assistant Station Master when the motor trolley is used for opening communications?

    <p>They must accompany the motor trolley.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the maximum speed allowed when approaching or passing areas with obstructed views according to the Caution Order?

    <p>10 KMPH</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT included in the authority for opening communication during total interruption?

    <p>Authority to bypass manual signals</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of the continuous track circuiting or axle counters in the Automatic Block System on double line?

    <p>To ensure signals can assume an off aspect only when safe</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement regarding the entry into an automatic block signalling section is correct?

    <p>The signal will automatically revert to on when the train passes it</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the Caution Order require the operator to do over facing points?

    <p>Observe a restriction of 15 KMPH</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What information must accompany the line clear enquiry message to the Station Master of the block station?

    <p>The kilometres between which the obstruction exists</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the minimum safe distance that must be clear for a signal to assume an off aspect in the Automatic Block System?

    <p>120 metres</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of the Automatic Block System, what governs the operation of Stop signals?

    <p>Track circuiting or axle counters</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens to a Stop signal once it is passed by a train in the Automatic Block System?

    <p>It automatically turns to on as per system rules</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the governing principle behind dividing the line into automatic block signalling sections?

    <p>To ensure each section is monitored independently for safety</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary requirement for a Stop signal to show an off aspect under the Automatic Block System?

    <p>The track ahead must be clear for an adequate distance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What section of the track is defined as the portion governed by a Stop signal in the Automatic Block System?

    <p>The segment between two consecutive Stop signals</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be established before a train can be dispatched from one block station to another?

    <p>The direction of traffic must be established only after obtaining Line Clear.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it necessary that Line Clear cannot be obtained unless the line is clear for an adequate distance beyond the first Stop signal?

    <p>To enhance the safety of trains entering the block section.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the minimum distance that must be clear for Line Clear to be valid?

    <p>180 metres</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens to an Automatic Stop signal when the line is not clear up to the next Automatic Stop signal?

    <p>It assumes the 'on' position.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following describes a condition when two adjacent block stations can signal for train movement?

    <p>The line between them is divided into multiple signalling sections.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be true about all Stop signals against the direction of traffic?

    <p>They must always remain at 'on'.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is implied when movement of trains into an automatic block signalling section has been established?

    <p>It is ensured that the Automatic Stop signal will not be set to 'off' without the line being clear.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the provision of Stop signals relate to the establishment of automatic block signalling sections?

    <p>The line may be divided into sections by Stop signals where required.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What checks are necessary before obtaining Line Clear from the block station?

    <p>Verification of clear tracks and conditions along the route to the next signal.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should the Loco Pilot do if no telephone communication is available near a signal?

    <p>Give the prescribed code of whistle and exchange signals with the Guard.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the maximum speed a Loco Pilot can proceed at when visibility is impaired due to environmental conditions?

    <p>10 kilometers per hour.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action should the Guard take when the train has stopped at an Automatic Stop signal?

    <p>Show a Stop hand signal towards the rear.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must a Loco Pilot do upon passing an Automatic Stop signal at 'on'?

    <p>Proceed with caution until the next Stop signal is reached.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is required from the Loco Pilot when visibility is hindered and he is not accompanied by an assistant?

    <p>Seek assistance of the Guard using the whistle code.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When should the Loco Pilot consider stopping the train after passing an Automatic Stop signal?

    <p>Up to the next signal if any obstruction is anticipated.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the Station Master oversee when Centralised Traffic Control is not in operation?

    <p>The working of trains at and between the stations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the precaution the Loco Pilot must follow when encountering environmental hindrances like fog or dust storms?

    <p>Proceed at a very slow speed, not exceeding 10 kilometers per hour.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should happen if the Loco Pilot needs assistance while operating under poor visibility but is alone?

    <p>Give the prescribed whistle code to summon the Guard.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    After which signal should the Loco Pilot be particularly vigilant for potential obstructions?

    <p>An Automatic Stop signal passed at 'on'.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the maximum speed a train should not exceed while being piloted into the station on a wrong line?

    <p>15 KMPH</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must the Station Master ensure before dispatching trains running in the right direction?

    <p>The train is authorized to run at normal speed</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which document is specifically issued to authorize the first train running in the right direction?

    <p>Authority for Temporary Single line working on double line</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be done by the Station Master before the reception of trains approaching the block station on the right line?

    <p>Check all reception signals are taken 'off'</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action must a Loco Pilot take upon receiving a Stop hand signal at the station?

    <p>Stop the train immediately</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What information must be exchanged between stations when subsequent trains are allowed to follow on the right line?

    <p>Private numbers for transactions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the memo issued for a Loco Pilot authorized to bring the train on to line No., what is the stated speed limit over points?

    <p>15 KMPH</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be ensured by the Station Master regarding points on the route before a train can receive clearance to enter?

    <p>All points are correctly set and locked</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens after the first train in the right direction clears the block station?

    <p>Subsequent trains may be allowed to follow each other on automatic signal aspects</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of the railway servant at the signal when a train is receiving a hand signal to stop?

    <p>To stop the train on Stop hand signal and pilot it into the station</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Additional Signals in Automatic Block Territory

    • Additional Automatic Stop signals can be installed between block stations.
    • Other fixed signals can be installed for safe train operation.

    Conditions for Taking Off Manual Stop Signals

    • Home Signal: Cannot be taken off unless the line is clear up to the Starter and an adequate distance beyond it.
    • Last Stop Signal: Cannot be taken off for a train unless the traffic direction is established, and the line is clear up to the next Automatic Stop signal or an adequate distance beyond the next Manual Stop signal.
    • Adequate distance is 120 meters for Home signals and 180 meters for Last Stop signals unless instructed otherwise.
    • A sand hump or derailing switch can replace this distance requirement for Home Signals.

    Temporary Single Line When Communication Fails

    • If a Home Signal is defective, the Station Master can authorize the Loco Pilot to pass the signal "on."
    • If the Last Stop signal is defective or the direction of traffic cannot be established, the Automatic Block Working shall be suspended.
    • The entire section between two block stations is considered as one block section.
    • Temporary single line working should be introduced between nearby stations with crossovers.

    Temporary Single Line Working Procedure

    • The Station Master proposing TSL working shall issue a message to the other end with following information:
      • Cause of obstruction
      • Selected line for TSL
      • Source of information that line is clear
      • Place of obstruction with Kilometreage
      • Speed restrictions on the line
      • Last train arrival time at the block station
    • Line clear is obtained via various communication methods in order of priority:
      • Station to station fixed telephones
      • Fixed telephones such as auto-phone and BSNL
      • Control telephone
      • VHF sets
    • For the first train running in the wrong direction, line clear is not required unless both Station Masters verify that all right-direction trains have arrived complete at the station.
    • The Station Master shall ensure level crossings are closed before authorizing the train to enter the block section.
    • The Loco Pilot of the first train running in the wrong direction receives an authority in form "Authority for Temporary Single line working on double line" (T/D.602) containing:
      • Line clear ticket
      • Authority to pass signal in ‘on’ position
      • Caution order stating:
        • Line the train runs on
        • Obstruction location
        • Requirement for clearance notifications to the rear station for each train

    Resumption of Normal Working

    • A written certificate from the Engineering department (minimum rank of PWI) is needed to certify the track is safe.
    • The Station Master issues a message to other stations and informs the SCOR.
    • All entries regarding train working are recorded in red ink in the TSR, showing suspension of double line working, introduction of single line working, and resumption of normal working.
    • All records of temporary single line working are retained at the station for review by the Traffic Inspector who then submits a report to the Sr.DOM / DOM within seven days.

    Procedure for Train Working During One Line Blockage

    • If communications fail and signals are also down due to a train accident, the trains shall be worked as follows:
    • Temporary Single line working can only be introduced after a responsible official of the engineering department (minimum rank of Inspector) certifies that the other line is free and safe for train passage.
    • Communications are opened by sending a light engine/train engine/motor trolley/tower wagon/trolley/Cycle trolley/Moped trolley/Diesel Car/Rail Motor Car/EMU/MEMU/DMU/DHMU/DEMU in the order of preference.
    • The Station Master will hand over "Authority for opening communication during total interruption of communication on single line section" (T/B.602) to the person going to open communications.
    • This authority includes:
      • Authority to proceed without Line Clear
      • Authority to pass signals in ‘on’ position
      • Caution order restricting the speed to 15 KMPH with clear view, and not exceeding 10 KMPH with limited view
      • Line clear enquiry message
      • Conditional line clear message
      • Authority T/A.912 authorizing the Loco Pilot/Motorman to pass the Automatic signals at ‘on’.

    Shunting During Obstruction

    • The Station Master shall ensure that the block section is clear for shunting and treat it as one block section.
    • They block forward and exchange messages with the station in advance.
    • The Loco Pilot is issued 'Authority T/806' authorizing them to pass LSS at ‘on’.
    • A Guard/competent railway servant supervises the shunting.
    • The SM shall ensure correct setting and locking of points before authorizing outward/inward movement.
    • On return, the Loco Pilot shall stop near LSS and be piloted into the station.
    • The SM shall ensure complete arrival of the train and cancel ‘block forward’

    Shunting in Rear of Train Leaving Station

    • Station Working Rules should be followed considering local conditions like gradient, visibility, speed and weight.
    • If permitted, the Station Master at the other end is informed, T/806 is issued without P.N.
    • A Guard / competent railway servant supervises the shunting.

    Shunting Within Station Section

    • Shunting is generally permitted within the station section.
    • When Line Clear is granted, shunting in that direction is not permitted unless explicitly allowed in the Station Working Rules (i.e., shunting in the face of an approaching train).

    Competency Certificates Renewal

    • Station Manager / Station Superintendent / Traffic Inspector are responsible for renewing competency certificates for Guards and Loco Inspectors every 6 months.
    • Renewal requires a 1 day orientation course.
    • Domestic Office Manager (DOM), Deputy Mechanical Engineer (DME) and Deputy Electrical Engineer (DEE) maintain a record of issued competency certificates.
    • Employees without a valid certificate are not permitted to work on Automatic Block System (ABS).

    Automatic Block System

    • ABS is a signaling system used on double lines
    • A red ‘A’ maker signal indicates a stop, signaling an obstruction ahead.
    • When encountering a red signal, the Loco Pilot is required to: stop in rear the signal, wait for 1 minute (day) or 2 minutes (night), sound the prescribed whistle and exchange signals with the Guard before proceeding.
    • The Guard must show a Stop hand signal towards the rear when the train halts for an Automatic Stop signal.
    • When visibility is limited (due to curves, fog, rain etc.), Loco Pilots must proceed at a speed not exceeding 10 kilometers per hour.
    • The Guard may be required to assist the Loco Pilot under limited visibility conditions.
    • After passing an Automatic Stop signal at ‘on’, a train hauled by any locomotive needs to maintain a distance of 150 meters or 2 clear overhead line electric (OHE) masts to the preceding train or any obstruction on the line.
    • This distance can be reduced to 75 meters or 1 clear OHE mast for following EMUs.
    • In challenging events, such as floods or dense fog, a distance should be kept to allow the Loco Pilot to notice the flashing tail lamp of the train ahead, or the obstruction.
    • The Loco Pilot must control the train’s speed to stop short of any obstructions.

    Procedures for Train Operations during Signal Failure

    • If a train halts between stations in automatic signalling territory, the Guard of the train must guide the crew of a relief engine.

    Single Line Operations

    • If a signal failure affects a single line, trains are instructed to proceed at normal speed with caution after confirmation of the first train’s safe arrival at the station ahead.
    • Each train must report its clearance to the station in the rear, using a private number.
    • The Senior Controller of Operations (SCOR) records all train movements
    • Once signals are restored, normal working of trains resumes after exchanging messages with private numbers to confirm the section is clear.
    • All records related to train operation are retained at the station and reviewed by a Traffic Inspector.

    Prolonged Signal Failure on Double Line

    • If all signals between two stations fail and communications are unavailable through various channels (fixed phones, auto-phones, BSNL phones, control phones, and VHF sets), specific procedures must be followed for train operation.
    • The Loco Pilot and Guard are briefed about the situation by the Station Master before the train enters the affected section.
    • All points within the affected area must be correctly set and locked before authorizing any train movement over them.
    • Motor trolley / trolley / cycle trolley / moped trolley operating for communication must be accompanied by the Guard or Assistant Station Master.
    • The Station Master must issue an “Authority for opening communication during total interruption of communication on single line section” (T/B.602) to the personnel opening communications.
    • This authority includes: permission to proceed without Line Clear; permission to pass signals in the ‘on’ position; a Caution Order with speed restrictions; a Line Clear enquiry message; and a conditional Line Clear message.
    • The Loco Pilot is issued additional documents: a conditional Line Clear ticket (T/G.602 up or T/H.602 down); a Line Clear reply message (T/F.602); a Caution Order; a Line Clear enquiry message (T/E.602); and a pilot-out memo for trains traveling in the wrong direction.

    Automatic Block System on Double Line

    • Track Circuiting or Axle Counters: Used on a double line for Automatic Block System.
    • Automatic Block Signalling Sections: When needed, the line between two adjacent block stations can be divided into multiple sections.
      • Each section is between two consecutive Stop signals.
      • Entry into each section is controlled by a Stop signal.
    • Stop Signal Control:
      • The signal will not turn to "off" unless the line is clear ahead to the next Stop signal and for a minimum distance beyond.
      • The signal automatically turns to "on" as soon as the train passes.
    • Minimum Distance: The minimum distance required beyond the next Stop signal is 120 meters, unless specified otherwise.

    Automatic Block System on Single Line

    • Continuous Track Circuiting or Axle Counters: Required for Automatic Block System on single line.
    • Direction of Traffic: Traffic direction is established only after receiving "Line Clear" from the block station ahead.
    • Train Departure: A train can only be started from one block station to the next after the direction of traffic is established.
    • Line Clear Criteria: "Line Clear" can only be obtained if the line is clear to the first Stop signal and for an adequate distance beyond.
    • Automatic Block Signalling Sections: The line can be sectioned using Stop signals between two block stations.
    • Automatic Stop Signal Control: After the direction of traffic is established, movement is controlled by Automatic Stop signals. The signal will not turn "off" unless the line is clear to the next Stop signal.
      • If the next signal is a Manual Stop signal, the line must be clear for an adequate distance beyond it.
    • Signals Against Traffic: All Stop signals against the direction of traffic must be "on."
    • Minimum Distance (Single Line): The minimum distance required beyond the next Stop signal is 180 meters, unless specified otherwise.
    • Communication Failure: If telephone communication at the signal is not available, the Loco Pilot must use a whistle code, exchange signals with the Guard, and proceed cautiously to the next Stop signal.
    • Guard's Duties: When stopped at an Automatic Stop signal, the Guard must signal "Stop" to the rear, except in certain circumstances.
    • Low Visibility: If visibility is poor due to curves, fog, rain, dust storms, or other issues, the Loco Pilot must proceed slowly, not exceeding 10 kilometers per hour. The Loco Pilot may request assistance from the Guard in such situations.
    • Guard Accompanying Loco Pilot: If visibility is poor, the Guard may be directed to accompany the Loco Pilot on the engine cab to help with observation.
    • Cautious Movement After "On" Signal: When passing an Automatic Stop signal that is "on," the Loco Pilot must proceed cautiously until reaching the next Stop signal. Even if the next signal is "off," the Loco Pilot must remain alert for obstructions.

    Train Handling on Single Line with Automatic Block System

    • Station Master's Responsibilities: The Station Master is responsible for train operations at and between stations.
    • Train Movement on Wrong Line: When a train is on the wrong line, the Loco Pilot must stop opposite the relevant signal for the correct line or the Luminous Stop Signal for the wrong line, whichever occurs first.
    • Pilot-In Memo: Before a train is moved onto a wrong line, the Station Master must issue a "Pilot-In Memo" to a designated railway servant in uniform who will conduct the train to the station.

    Receiving Trains on the Right Line

    • First Train on Right Line: The first train running in the correct direction is dispatched with an "Authority for Temporary Single Line Working on Double Line" (T/D.602) and "T/A.912". The train can run at normal speed, subject to speed restrictions.
    • Subsequent Trains on Right Line: Subsequent trains on the right line can follow each other if the Station Master in the rear confirms the station in advance is prepared to receive the train and exchanges private numbers.

    Receiving Trains on the Right Line

    • Reception Signals: Relevant reception signals must be "off" to receive trains approaching the block station on the right line.

    Communication Interruption

    • Opening Communications During Total Interruption:*
    • The Station Master must provide an "Authority for Opening Communication during Total Interruption of Communication on Single Line Section" (T/B.602) to the individual responsible for opening communications which includes several elements.
      • Authority to Proceed without Line Clear: Allows the individual to proceed without receiving Line Clear.
      • Authority to Pass Signals in "On" Position: Allows the individual to pass signals in the "on" position.
      • Caution Order: Restricts the speed to 15 KMPH on straight sections with clear vision, and not exceeding 10 KMPH in areas with reduced visibility.
      • Line Clear Enquiry Message: Sent to the station at the other end of the affected block section requesting Line Clear for the train waiting to be dispatched.
      • Conditional Line Clear Message: Sent to the station at the other end of the affected block section allowing the return of certain rolling stock.
      • T/A.912: Authorizes the Loco Pilot/Motorman to pass Automatic, Semi-Automatic, and Manually operated signals at "on" under certain conditions and observe rules relating to LC gates.

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    SCR Automatic Block System Rules PDF

    Description

    Explore the critical aspects of additional automatic stop signals and conditions for taking off manual stop signals in railway systems. Understand the protocols for temporary single-line operations during communication failures. This quiz will test your knowledge on safe train operations and signal regulations.

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