THE recent fatal Odisha train accident in India which claimed 288 lives with over 1,000 passengers injured has been a tragic event that has caused immense sadness and grief to families and friends of the victims.
Malaysian Indian Voice shares their pain and conveys our deepest condolences to the Indian government and the victims of this tragedy. It is a painful reminder that there is still much work to be done to make public transportation safer and more efficient for all.
The loss of life and injuries sustained in this accident is a stark reminder of the importance of safety regulations and their strict enforcement. While accidents can happen, it is clear that more could have been done to prevent this particular incident.
It is crucial that the Indian government takes immediate steps to ensure that such incidents do not occur again. This would require a comprehensive review of safety standards as well as the development of more stringent regulations and protocols for transportation systems.
In addition to regulatory changes, the government must also ensure that those in-charge of transportation systems are held accountable for their actions. This includes training and educating operators and personnel on the importance of safety as well as enforcing disciplinary measures for those who fail to follow guidelines.
Moreover, the government must also ensure that adequate resources are available to maintain and upgrade transportation systems. This includes regular maintenance and inspections of trains, tracks and other infrastructure as well as the implementation of advanced technology and safety features.
As we mourn the loss of life and injuries sustained in this tragedy, we must also reflect on the many ways in which we can work towards a safer and more efficient transportation system. This requires a collective effort from all stakeholders, including government officials, transportation operators and members of the public.
It is also important to acknowledge the trauma and pain experienced by the victims’ families and friends. As a global community, we must come together to provide support and assistance to those affected by this tragedy.
In particular, the Indian government must prioritise providing financial and emotional support to the victims and their families. This includes access to healthcare and counselling services in addition to financial compensation for those who have lost their loved ones or sustained injuries.
The recent train accident in India serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of safety and accountability in transportation systems – even in Malaysia and globally.
It is crucial that we take immediate action to prevent such incidents from occurring again and to provide support to those affected by this tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with the victims and their families during this difficult time. – June 6, 2023
Papparaidu Veraman is the founder & advisor of Malaysian Indian Voice (MIV) and assistant organisational secretary to DAP Selangor.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
Main pic credit: Reuters
