DESIGN ANALYSIS OF BLOWING HORNS FOR DISTRACTION OF CATTLE/WILD ANIMALS FROM RAILWAY TRACKS FOR INDIAN RAILWAYS

Abstract

Indian Railways, one of the largest railway networks in the world, has been facing a significant challenge of cattle run-over cases on railway tracks, causing inconvenience to passengers and harm to both the animals and trains. Despite implementing measures like track fencing, alarms, and speeding up trains, the incidents continue to be a matter of concern. To reduce such incidents, Indian Railways needs to collaborate with wildlife experts and conservationists to develop effective strategies. One solution is to introduce underpasses or overpasses for wildlife to cross the tracks safely, as successfully implemented in other countries. Additionally, educating local communities and cattle owners about the dangers of grazing on railway tracks and promoting alternative grazing grounds could also help mitigate such incidents. Another solution is to use sound as an auditory stimulus to distract animals from desired spaces. Animals rely on producing and perceiving auditory stimuli, and the use of fear stimuli has been an old practice to keep animals away. Animals can perceive their environment and threats, and responsive behaviour due to the perceiving of sounds is termed Acoustic Stimuli. Therefore, the Indian Railways should explore innovative methods to save wildlife and cattle from run-over incidents while promoting safety and efficiency on railway tracks.