Here Is Why Trains Of Indian Railways Have Cross Sign On The Last Bogie

The Indian Railways, which connect every corner of our beautiful nation, are aptly referred to as our country’s backbone. Thousands of people and loads of cargo are transported around the nation every day via a vast network of railroad stations, trains, and kilometers of railway lines.

From the age of steam and coal engines to the plans to deploy a bullet train in the upcoming years, the Indian Railways has had a tremendous journey and changes across generations and decades.

However, traveling through traditional railways has always been a delight for Indians, as it does not just give us nearby glimpses of the places, but also some of their own features that fascinate us.

Yes, you heard it right! The Indian railways have so many things that are still mysteries to many people, even regular travelers.

Among them are the various signs and symbols that may be seen both inside and outside of trains. Many of these might not be understood by everyone. One of them is the X mark behind the last bogie of every passenger train.

You may have spotted the letter X or a cross symbol on the back of the last coach of the train, but very few bother about it, as we didn’t bother about it at first, despite being frequent travelers.

However, when curiosity grew inside us about the X mark, we scoured the whole internet for some logical clarification, and ultimately, we got what we wanted.

Let’s discuss everything about the X mark

Typically, the final bogie behind passenger trains operating in India has the letter X painted on it in either a bright yellow or white color.

Additionally, if you look closely, you can see the initials LV inscribed next to the cross mark. LV stands for “Last Vehicle.” It is a little board sign that is often fastened to the back of a vehicle and is highlighted in black on a yellow background.

Below the word X, there is a red light that should be your main point of attention.

What the X mark signifies on the last bogie of a train?

Today, we are here with some logical answers for those who have already seen the X mark and have questioned why it is present on the train’s last box.

• Its presence, particularly at the train’s final box, is well justified. With the aim of preventing an accident, the X mark on the final bogie of a train is displayed.
• It is useful to confirm that the box with the mark is the final one on that train. This sign aids the crew in indicating that if the box with the X is not a trail left by a train, then an emergency has occurred. If a coach detaches from the train, there is a probability that it might have been involved in an accident.
• The guard, who is in charge of waving the green flag at the railroad crossing, notices the X to ensure that the train’s coaches are all linked.
• The red light under the scope of the mark during the night, when it is dark and the sign is not particularly noticeable, aids in identifying the last coach.
• When the mark and the light do not reflect in their usual pattern, railway employees and authorities are notified that there is a problem with the train. It protects passengers and anyone nearby from any deadly incidents or accidents.

If you haven’t already done so, the next time you visit the railway station, you might want to take a closer look at the last bogie of your train, because it is all about your and others’ safety.