What is the correct action for a conductor if the train passes a station without permission?

When a train passes a station without permission, the conductor must prioritize safety and communication, which is why contacting the rail control center is the correct action. This ensures that the situation is promptly addressed, and appropriate measures can be taken to manage the train's operations and ensure the safety of both passengers and railway infrastructure.

The rail control center has the necessary resources and authority to assess the situation, determine the implications of the incident, and guide the conductor on the next steps, such as whether to stop the train or return to the station. Timely communication in such scenarios helps maintain safety protocols and manage the overall train schedule effectively.

In contrast, simply filing a report after the shift does not address the immediate issue or ensure safety. Ignoring the situation would pose risks to passengers and operations, while informing passengers of delays without notifying the rail control center would not adequately resolve the underlying operational concern. Thus, the comprehensive safety measures and operational protocols necessitate direct communication with the rail control center in the event of such an incident.