Bullet Train Gets Earthquake Guardian Angel: Early Detection System Ensures Passenger Safety
A sneak peek into the new innovative system on the Bullet Train that safeguards lives and properties during seismic events
TEXT: INDIAN RAILWAYS MAGAZINE
The Bullet Train project, officially known as the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor, is taking a groundbreaking step towards passenger and infrastructure safety. For the first time in India, 28 seismometers will be installed along its route, forming a robust Early Earthquake Detection System (EEDS). This innovative system, inspired by Japan’s Shinkansen technology, will act as a guardian angel for the Bullet Train, safeguarding both passengers and critical infrastructure during seismic events.
Imagine a tremor rumbling through the earth. Primary waves, the fastest seismic waves, race ahead, carrying the initial shock. EEDS seismometers, strategically placed along the alignment and in earthquake-prone areas, will detect these waves instantly. Upon detection, the system will trigger an automatic power shutdown, bringing the Bullet Train to a safe halt. Emergency brakes will engage, ensuring passengers remain protected even during unforeseen tremors.
The system’s reach extends beyond the immediate Bullet Train route. Six additional “inland seismometers” will be installed in earthquake-prone regions across Maharashtra and Gujarat. These sentinels will provide valuable early warnings to local authorities, enabling them to initiate emergency protocols and minimize potential damage.
The placement of these seismometers is no random act. Japanese experts meticulously surveyed areas where earthquakes exceeding 5.5 magnitude have occurred in the past century. Micro tremor tests, analyzing soil suitability, further guided the selection process. This meticulous planning ensures the EEDS can effectively detect and respond to seismic threats throughout the Bullet Train’s path.
This groundbreaking initiative marks a significant leap forward for India’s infrastructure safety. By harnessing the power of technology and meticulous planning, the Bullet Train project is setting a new standard for earthquake preparedness, ensuring a smooth and secure journey for passengers and a robust infrastructure for the future.