NEW DELHI (Metro Rail News): In response to the tragic triple train accident in Odisha, the Railways has taken a significant step to ensure track safety. The railway authorities have allocated Rs 370 crore for deep screening of all the tracks in the South Eastern Railway. The project aims to thoroughly examine all types of mainline tracks on the broad-gauge routes of the South Eastern Railway zone.
To carry out this inspection, over 150 ballast cleaning machines (BCM) will be deployed. These machines play a crucial role in improving track resilience and restoring proper drainage. Following the deep screening process, dynamic track stabilizers and ballast regulating machines will be utilized to restore track stability and redistribute track ballast. Additional tasks, such as lubricating fish-plated rail joints and reattaching joggled fish plates, will also be completed.
According to a railway official, this project is a routine maintenance and safety measure undertaken by the Indian Railways to ensure the tracks are safe and well-maintained. However, the timing of this initiative in the South Eastern Railway zone holds significance due to the recent Balasore accident, which has raised concerns about rail safety.