SWR is working round the clock even in lockdown. Because of suspension of passenger train operation, corridor blocks are being taken for enhanced track maintenance on its busy routes. Regular and special maintenance work is being taken up without disruption of train services. The extended lockdown has provided the opportunity to carry out the repair and maintenance works in all sectors.
Shri Suresh Angadi, Hon’ble MoSR has directed railway officials to give top priority to safety and ensure that all safety related works are taken up. As directed by Hon’ble MoSR all asset maintenance works are being taken up on priority during the extended Lockdown.
Since the beginning of lockdown, Oscilitating Monitoring System (a track recording car) assessed 8410 Km of Track and Track Recording Cars verified 626 Km of track for any track defects and same were identified, attended immediately.
Track maintenance workers have checked 3292 critical welds and 355 Track Kilometers of rails using Ultrasonic Flaw Detection machines. Further Track maintenance machines fleets have during lockdown period performed Tamping of 370 Km of track with Duomatic Machine and 229 Turnouts (Points connecting more than two tracks). Efforts are being done to maximize use of track machines.
During various maintenance operations, track ballast regulator machine has restored 27,000 Cum of ballast and maintained the stability of tracks. Utility Track vehicles have been working continuously for loading and unloading tracks and Sleepers. During the lockdown period, 15.6 Track Km of Rails were loaded and unloaded at respective work spots.
Divisional Railway Managers are monitoring the work done taken up by the Track maintenance departments along with Branch officers of the divisions.
The Railway is not only carrying out regular maintenance but also preparing for the summer and upcoming monsoon which is the most challenging season in train operations. The workers are working day and night to ensure smooth operations of rail services once lockdown is lifted.
All track maintainer staff have been provided with safety equipment to safeguard against the Covid-19 virus. They are also being counseled by Sr. Divisional Engineers to maintain social distancing and informed of Covid-19 updates and also take care of their families by staying at home during the lockdown.
