Purpose: To establish and maintain technological standards in railway systems operated by both private and public services for enhanced safety, efficiency, and reliability.
Section 1: Technological Integration
1. Advanced Signaling Systems:
- All railway services, whether privately or publicly operated, must implement state-of-the-art signaling systems to ensure optimal train control and safety. These systems must incorporate:
- Automatic Train Protection (ATP): A system designed to automatically control train speeds and prevent accidents by enforcing speed limits and signal aspects. ATP systems monitor train speed, position, and movement authority, applying brakes if a train exceeds permitted speeds or passes signals at dangerous speeds.
- Positive Train Control (PTC): An advanced system that combines GPS, wireless communication, and onboard computers to monitor and control train movements. PTC systems prevent collisions, derailments, and unauthorized train movements by automatically stopping trains before certain accidents occur. They provide real-time data on train locations, speeds, and movements to central control centers, ensuring precise and safe train operations.
2. Automated Control Systems:
- The integration of automated train control systems is mandatory to enhance operational efficiency. These systems should enable automatic speed regulation, braking, and route selection based on real-time data.
3. Real-Time Monitoring:
- Railway services must deploy real-time monitoring technologies to track train locations, conditions, and performance. Data from monitoring systems must be centrally collected and analyzed to improve decision-making and maintenance scheduling.
4. Cybersecurity Framework:
- A robust cybersecurity framework must be established to protect railway infrastructure from cyber threats. This framework should include regular risk assessments, implementation of security protocols, and continuous monitoring of cyber threats.
Section 2: World Assembly Commission on Railway Standards
1. Establishment of the Commission:
- A World Assembly Commission on Railway Standards (CRS) shall be established to uphold the standards set forth in this Act. The CRS will be responsible for overseeing the implementation and enforcement of technological and cybersecurity standards in railway systems worldwide.
2. Functions and Responsibilities:
- The CRS will conduct regular inspections and audits of railway services to ensure compliance with this Act.
- It will provide guidance and support to railway services in implementing advanced technologies and cybersecurity measures.
- The Commission will also facilitate international cooperation and the sharing of best practices among member states.
3. Reporting and Accountability:
- The CRS will publish annual reports on the state of railway technology and cybersecurity across member states.
- It will also offer recommendations for continuous improvement and address any identified compliance issues.
Section 3: Compliance and Enforcement
1. Inspection and Audits:
- The CRS will conduct regular inspections and audits of railway services to ensure compliance with this Act. Inspections will focus on the integration and functionality of technological systems and compliance with cybersecurity protocols.
2. Reporting Requirements:
- Railway services must submit annual reports detailing their compliance with technological standards and cybersecurity measures. These reports must be made publicly available to ensure transparency and accountability.
3. Public Feedback:
- A public feedback mechanism must be established to allow passengers and stakeholders to report concerns and suggestions regarding railway operations.
Section 4: Implementation
1. Timeline for Implementation:
- Railway services must comply with the technological standards within five years of the enactment of this Act. Periodic progress reports must be submitted to the CRS during the implementation phase.
