What is the consequence of failing to report damaged rail infrastructure promptly?

Reporting damaged rail infrastructure promptly is crucial to maintaining safety within rail operations. When damage goes unreported, it can lead to significant safety hazards. For instance, damaged tracks, signals, or other critical components can result in derailments, collisions, or other serious incidents, putting not just the personnel and passengers at risk, but also affecting the operational integrity of the rail network. Prompt reporting enables timely inspection and repairs, which helps to prevent accidents and maintain the reliability of the rail system. Therefore, addressing and reporting infrastructure damage immediately is essential for ensuring safe and efficient rail operations.