If a train operator does not receive a proceed signal at short intervals while the train is moving, what should be the first action taken?

When a train operator does not receive a proceed signal at short intervals while the train is moving, the first action that should be taken is to stop immediately. This is critical for ensuring the safety of the train and its passengers. By halting the train, the operator allows for an assessment of the situation to prevent potential accidents or conflicts on the track.

Stopping immediately gives the operator time to re-evaluate the environment, including looking for signals that may have shifted or changed after the initial signal was not received. It also provides the opportunity to ensure that the track ahead is clear of any obstructions or other trains, and it allows for communication with control centers or other relevant parties for further instructions.

While seeking clarification or proceeding with caution may seem reasonable, they both carry inherent risks if the operator continues to move without a clear understanding of the signalling situation. Therefore, the priority should always be safety, which necessitates a full stop until the operator can ascertain a clear and safe course of action.