Automatic Block System Regulations

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary requirement for the Automatic Block System on double lines?

Trains must operate at a speed limit of 120 km/h

Use of manual stop signals only

The system must allow for frequent signal changes

Continuous track circuiting or axle counters (correct)

How should the Stop signal for an automatic block signalling section behave when a train approaches?

It can display an 'Off' aspect at any time

It must always indicate 'On' until manually cleared

It shall not turn 'Off' unless the line is clear beyond the next signal (correct)

It indicates the train can proceed even if the line is not clear

What is the minimum distance that must be clear beyond the next Stop signal according to the Automatic Block System?

120 Meters (correct)

10 Meters

50 Meters

200 Meters

What happens to the Stop signal after a train passes it in the Automatic Block System?

It is automatically placed to 'On' immediately Signup and view all the answers

What governs the entry into an automatic block signalling section?

Stop signals that control train movement Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum speed a Loco Pilot should proceed at after passing an Automatic Stop signal at 'On'?

15 KMPH Signup and view all the answers

What action should the Guard take if the Motorman of an E.M.U train exceeds the prescribed speed?

Give three pause rings on the bell code Signup and view all the answers

What minimum distance should a Loco Pilot maintain from the preceding train after passing an Automatic Stop signal at 'On'?

150 metres Signup and view all the answers

In what situation can the distance to be maintained behind the preceding train be reduced to 75 metres?

When following an E.M.U train Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum speed permitted in dense fog after passing an Automatic Stop signal at 'On'?

10 KMPH Signup and view all the answers

What should the Asst. Loco Pilot do when visibility is poor due to environmental conditions?

Pilot the train on foot until the track is visible Signup and view all the answers

What should a Loco Pilot do if they encounter a flickering or bobbing Automatic Stop signal?

Observe the procedure as laid down in S.R. 3.74 (i) Signup and view all the answers

What conditions may allow a following train to be pulled closer to the preceding train after passing an Automatic Stop signal?

In special circumstances like floods Signup and view all the answers

What will happen if one line is obstructed?

Trains will continue on the unobstructed line and divert if possible. Signup and view all the answers

What is the interval duration between trains when both Up lines or both Down lines are obstructed?

15 minutes Signup and view all the answers

Which stations will suburban trains stop at when both Up lines or both Down lines are obstructed?

Only those stations having platforms on the through line. Signup and view all the answers

Which action is NOT part of managing train movement on affected sections after an obstruction?

Allowing random train movement on any available line. Signup and view all the answers

When can a Loco Pilot be authorized to leave a station during obstructions?

After confirming 15 minutes have elapsed since the last train's departure. Signup and view all the answers

What must be locked on the line during the obstruction event?

All facing points on the line for safety. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the 'Authority to proceed without line Clear'?

To ensure trains do not stop at stations lacking platforms on the through line. Signup and view all the answers

In the event of obstruction, what is essential for a safe train operation on the local line?

Trains must run in the right direction as per normal working. Signup and view all the answers

What should the Loco Pilot do if he finds an Automatic Stop signal with an 'A' marker at 'On' during the day?

Bring the train to a stop in rear of that signal. Signup and view all the answers

If communication fails completely with both the Station Master and Centralised Traffic Control, which rule should trains be worked in accordance with?

Rule 6.02 (ii) Signup and view all the answers

What action should the Loco Pilot take if an Automatic Stop signal remains at 'On' after the waiting period?

Seek instructions from the Centralised Traffic Control Operator. Signup and view all the answers

How long should the Loco Pilot wait at the signal during nighttime?

Two minutes Signup and view all the answers

In the absence of communication, how must the Loco Pilot handle train dispatch?

Despatch trains according to S.R. 9.06 (iii). Signup and view all the answers

What must the Loco Pilot issue to the Loco Pilot along with the signal failure memo?

Line Clear Ticket Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the Line Clear Ticket?

To confirm that the route of dispatch is correctly set. Signup and view all the answers

How should the Loco Pilot act if he does not receive Line Clear from the station in advance?

Follow the procedures outlined in S.R. 9.06 (iii). Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum speed a train can run when the view is clear?

25 kilometres an hour Signup and view all the answers

What must be done when three lines are obstructed?

Trains shall be worked on the unobstructed line. Signup and view all the answers

What is required for normal working to be resumed after track obstruction?

A written certificate from a responsible engineering/electrical official. Signup and view all the answers

What speed must trains not exceed over facing points?

15 kilometres an hour Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions should NOT be taken when the view is not clear?

Trains should operate at regular scheduled speeds. Signup and view all the answers

What record must be made when normal working is resumed?

An entry in the Train Signal Registers of all concerned stations. Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for scrutinizing the records of train operations under this system?

The Traffic Inspector of the section. Signup and view all the answers

What action must the loco pilot perform while running on the wrong line?

Switch on the flasher light of the train engine. Signup and view all the answers

What action should the Loco Pilot take when approaching the First Stop signal on a single line section?

Bring the train to a stand and sound one long continuous whistle Signup and view all the answers

What should the Loco Pilot do if no station staff arrives within 10 minutes after stopping at the signal?

Send the assistant to inform the Station master Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstances can a train move against the established direction of traffic?

Only under special instructions ensuring the line is clear Signup and view all the answers

What must be done after resuming normal working of trains following an incident?

The Traffic Inspector submits a report within seven days Signup and view all the answers

If a Loco Pilot encounters an obstruction or failure in mid-section, what is the first step they should take?

Use the field telephone to contact the Controller on duty Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true regarding the issuing of authority for train movement?

Normal working resumes when the cause for the authority no longer exists Signup and view all the answers

During normal operations, when are trains allowed to travel against established traffic direction?

Under no circumstances whatsoever Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of not adhering to the recorded procedures in train working under this system?

Increased risk of accidents and miscommunication Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Automatic Block System - Double Line

Essentials: Continuous track circuiting or axle counters are required. The line is divided into sections governed by Stop signals. Track circuits control Stop signals ensuring the line is clear not only to the next Stop signal, but also an adequate distance beyond. The signal automatically turns on when passed by a train.
Adequate Distance: Unless otherwise specified, the adequate distance should be at least 120 meters.
Modified Semi-automatic Stop Signals: One Automatic Stop signal between two stations in each direction can be modified. These are interlocked with signals ahead and controlled by the station master ahead. Relevant indications—normal or modified semi-automatic mode—should be available at both ends of the stations.
Advanced Starter Signal: Interlocked with the midsection Modified Semi-automatic Stop signal. When the A-marker is extinguished, the Advanced Starter assumes an "Off" aspect. The signal is clear up to an adequate distance beyond the midsection Modified Semi-automatic Stop signal.

Automatic Block System - Single Line

Essentials: Continuous track circuiting or axle counters are required. The direction of traffic must be established. A train cannot be started between stations unless a Line Clear has been obtained. The line must be clear up to the First Stop signal and a reasonable distance beyond.
Adequate Distance: The adequate distance for clauses (d) and (f) should be at least 180 meters unless otherwise directed by approved special instructions.
Modified Semi-automatic Stop Signals: One Automatic Stop signal between two stations in each direction can be modified. These are interlocked with signals ahead and controlled by the station master ahead. Relevant indications—normal or modified semi-automatic mode—should be available at both ends of the stations.
Advanced Starter Signal: Interlocked with the midsection Modified Semi-automatic Stop signal. When the A-marker is extinguished, the Advanced Starter assumes an "Off" aspect. The signal is clear up to an adequate distance beyond the midsection Modified Semi-automatic Stop signal.

Loco Pilot and Guard Duties (Double Line)

"On" Signal: If a Loco Pilot finds an Automatic Stop signal with the "A" marker at "On", they must stop their train in the rear of the signal. Wait one minute during the day and two minutes during the night. If the signal remains "On," the Loco Pilot uses a coded whistle, then exchanges signals with the Guard and proceeds cautiously.
Guard Actions: The Guard displays a Stop hand signal towards the rear when the train stops at an Automatic Stop signal.
Reduced Speed (Poor Visibility): In foggy, stormy, or rainy conditions, the Loco Pilot can operate at a reduced speed of 10kmph.
Guard Assistance: The Guard accompanies the Loco Pilot on the loco, to provide careful observation of the area ahead.
Cautious Advance Past a Signal: When passing an "On" signal, the Loco Pilot proceeds with caution until the next Stop signal is reached, even if it's "Off," and looks out for obstructions.

Loco Pilot and Guard Duties (Single Line)

"On" Signal: Stop before the signal, and wait a minute by day or two at night; exchange signals and proceed cautiously once Line Clear is received.
Reduced Speed (Poor Visibility): Reduce speed to 10 kilometers per hour during conditions such as curvature, fog, rain, or dust. In these situations, get assistance from the Guard.
Guard Assistance: The Guard accompanies the Loco Pilot until they reach a safe position.

Minimum Equipment/Fixed Signals (Single Line)

Manual/Semi-Automatic Stop Signals: These are required at each station: a Home signal, a Starter signal, and an Automatic Stop signal in the rear of the Home signal.
Additional Signals: Additional Automatic Stop signals may be added between stations depending on safety needs.

Failure of Automatic Signalling

Communications Available: Specific procedures exist to handle failure of communications, when communication with the appropriate parties is possible. Use of the private number system, to relay necessary information to the affected sections/stations.
No Communications Available: If communication is not possible, trains are managed by physically contacting/approaching the necessary authorities.

Person in Charge of Working Trains (Single Line)

Station Master: Responsible for the train's operation on a section with limited Centralized Traffic Control.
Controller: Responsible for a section under Centralized Traffic Control, except in the case of emergency or specific instructions.

The Automatic Block System - Rules for Particular Situations

Special rules: There are specific rules based on weather conditions or obstruction, accidents and other circumstances to help control train operations.

Competency Certificate

Issuing Certificate: Train controllers, managers, guards and other personnel must follow a prescribed course on Automatic Block System, and upon passing, they receive a Competency certificate or a duplicate copy of a lost certificate
Renewing Certificate: The certificates of the personnel engaged in Block control function are valid for 6months and are renewed every 6 months.

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Description

Test your knowledge on the Automatic Block System's requirements and protocols. This quiz covers essential aspects such as stop signal behavior, minimum distance regulations, and actions for Loco Pilots and Guards. Ideal for railway professionals and enthusiasts wanting to deepen their understanding of automatic signaling.