Indian Railways Track Modernisation

Indian Railways operates over 25,000 trains daily, transporting more than 20 million passengers and significant quantities of freight, including coal, iron ore, and cement, across a network exceeding 1,37,000 km. The condition of the tracks is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of these trains.

Overview of Modernisation Efforts

• Initiated a wide-ranging modernisation programme over a decade ago focusing on: 
  • Track renewal with modern machinery.
  • Advanced testing and inspection methods.
  • Mechanised maintenance and installation of safety fencing.

Achievements in Track Maintenance

• Since 2014, renewed about 55,000 km of tracks improving safety and reducing repair needs.
• Laid approximately 44,000 track km of long rail panels, enhancing smoothness and safety.
• 80,000 track km of stronger 60-kg rails now support higher loads and speeds.

Advanced Testing and Safety Measures

• Ultrasonic Flaw Detection (USFD) covered 36.2 lakh track km and 2.25 crore welds, reducing rail failures by 90%.
• Implemented phased-array testing, magnetic-particle inspection, and GPS-enabled Oscillation Monitoring Systems (OMS).

Mechanisation and Efficiency

• Track machine fleet expanded from 748 in 2014 to 1,785 in 2026, enhancing maintenance efficiency.
• Deep screening by machines over 1 lakh track km improves ballast bed functionality.
• Grinding rail over 1 lakh km improved ride quality and safety.

Additional Safety and Infrastructure Enhancements

• Installed 17,500 km of safety fencing for speeds above 110 kmph.
• Implemented 36,000 thick-web switches and 7,500 weldable CMS crossings for smoother operations.
• Adopted wider, heavier sleepers and H-beam sleepers on bridges for enhanced stability.

Outcomes of Modernisation

• Track supporting speeds over 130 kmph increased from 6% to 23%.
• Track fit for 110 kmph and above rose from about 40% to 80%.
• Consequential train accidents decreased by 89%, improving accident rate per million train kilometres by 90%.

Technological Integration

• Web-enabled Track Management System (TMS) consolidates data, aiding priority setting and timely action.

These advancements reflect significant progress and the impact of sustained efforts and investments in modernisation, contributing to smoother journeys, reduced travel times, and a more reliable railway network.