New Delhi: The Ministry of Railways has taken several significant decisions aimed at making rail travel safer, more comfortable, and modern. During a review meeting held at Rail Bhawan, the Railway Minister decided to replace the traditional iron and concrete sleepers currently used in bridge approaches, points, and crossings with composite sleepers.
These new composite sleepers are not only lightweight but also capable of bearing heavier loads, and they offer superior cushioning—ensuring a more comfortable experience for passengers as trains traverse bridges and complex sections of the track. Furthermore, these sleepers can be customized to suit local conditions and will entail lower maintenance costs.
Additionally, railway tracks will now be monitored using Artificial Intelligence (AI). Inspection coaches will be equipped with Ground Penetration Radar (GPR) systems capable of accurately assessing the internal structural integrity of the tracks.
A decision has also been taken to adopt Magnetic Particle Testing technology to enhance the quality of welding, thereby enabling the detection of even minute defects.
