Indian Railways has decided to introduce modern composite sleepers in bridge approaches and points and crossings as part of a wider push to improve safety, durability and passenger comfort, according to a statement by the Ministry of Railways on Thursday, 9 April.
Railways will also use AI-based monitoring to further improve track surveillance.
The decisions were taken by Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in a review meeting held with railway officials at the Rail Bhawan in New Delhi today, 9 April.
The ministry said sleepers used in bridge approaches and points and crossings will now be composite instead of the existing heavy iron and concrete sleepers.
According to the ministry, the new composite sleepers are lighter, capable of carrying higher loads and offer better cushioning than the existing ones. They are also easier to lay and repair.
The ministry added that these sleepers can be designed and installed according to the specific conditions of the location where they are to be used, and their deployment is expected to improve passenger experience, especially while passing over bridges and points and crossings.
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The ministry said the composite sleepers made from mixed materials can withstand loads of up to 700 kg per square centimetre.
It added that these sleepers are expected to last longer and reduce maintenance costs for the Railways.
In another key decision, Indian Railways has decided to use Artificial Intelligence for railway track monitoring.
For this purpose, a special AI-enabled device will be installed in inspection vehicles.
The ministry said this device, called Ground Penetration Radar, will assess the condition of the track base.
The ministry also said a new testing technique, Magnetic Particle Testing, will be introduced to improve the quality of welding in railway tracks.
According to the ministry, the technique is effective in identifying minute defects in welded joints.
The Ministry of Railways said the decisions reflect Indian Railways’ focus on public safety and its continued efforts to provide safer and more comfortable travel to passengers.
