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Types of train horns and what they mean in Indian Railways

Have you ever-heard a train whistle closely? Well, they are not just for the arrival or departure but every horn and its duration has a meaning behind it. Here are eleven types of horns and what they mean, according to Indian railways.

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One short horn: A small horn means the motorman would take the train in the yard where it would be washed and cleaned for its next trip.

2) Two short horns: When the motorman gives two smaller horns, he is signalling the guard to ask railway signal for starting the train.

3) 3 smaller horns: Motormen rarely press the horns thrice because if they do, it means they have lost control over the motor and that the guard has to immediately pull the vacuum break.

4) Four smaller horns: The four smaller horns denote that there is a ‘technical’ issue with the train and that the train would not go ahead.


5) One long horn and a shorter one: This horn means that the motorman is signalling the guard to set the brake pipe system before they start the engine.

6) Two long horns and two short horns: The motorman is signalling the guard to take control of the engine.

7) A continuous horn: A continuous horn is blown for alerting the passengers that the train is passing non-stop through many stations.

8) Two horns with two pauses: This signal is to alert the passersby that the train would be running through a railway crossing.

9) Two long and short horns: If the motorman blows these horns, it means the train is changing the tracks

10) Two short and one long horn: This sound means that a passenger has pulled a chain or the guard has pulled a vacuum break.

11) Six times, short horns: It’s a trouble signal where the train is stuck in a dangerous situation.

Information source: click here