The Central Railway (CR) has implemented various modern technologies and comprehensive measures to enhance the safety and maintenance of railway tracks, including for suburban local train traffic and express services. To address potential rail fractures risk during the winter season, it has implemented a series of comprehensive measures. Recognizing that tracks undergo expansion and compression due to temperature fluctuations, CR has intensified efforts to detect and address rail flaws promptly. Measures and Technology Oiling and greasing of fish plate joints: Fish plates are used to join rails end-to-end. The name fish plate is traditionally given to this fitting as its section looks like a fish. CR has completed the oiling and greasing of fish plate joints at 90% of the mainline locations, with the remaining 2,986 joints scheduled for completion within 1-2 weeks. In the Mumbai Division, 18,750 locations have been completed, with 2,972 remaining. GPS for trackmen: CR has provided 3,143 GPS trackers to its trackmen to facilitate thorough foot patrols for fault detection. This technology enables real-time tracking of patrol routes and trackmen movements, ensuring an immediate response to any anomalies. USFD B-Scan machines: CR has distributed I41 USFD B-SCAN machines across five divisions (Mumbai, Bhusaval, Nagpur, Pune, and Solapur). These machines use ultrasonic waves (sound waves of 2-4 MHz) to detect flaws in the rails. Ultrasonic waves are transmitted to the rail and received back from the rail using a small piece of electric crystal fitted in the probe. The reflected waves are displayed on an oscilloscope screen, allowing for the detection of flaws' type, magnitude, and location. Results: The outcomes of these initiatives are evident in the substantial reduction in rail and weld fractures over the years There were 108 cases in 2021-22; 57 cases in 2022-23 and 42 cases in 2023-24 so far. It showed a 61% decrease compared to 2021-22 and a 26% decrease compared to 2022-23 in the current financial year 2023-24. Funds for track maintenance: Substantial funds of Rs 1,400 crore have been allocated for track renewal in the financial year 2023-24 for Central Railway, with approximately 48% (₹675 crore) already spent on vital infrastructure improvements. According to Dr. Shivraj Manaspure, Chief Public Relations Officer, CR, these measures not only enhance safety but also reduce track maintenance blocks, minimizing disruptions to train services. These initiatives reflect a commitment to ensuring the safety and efficiency of railway operations within the Central Railway network.
