RAILWAYS : INDIAN RAILWAYS STRENGTHENS SAFETY THROUGH ADVANCED TRACK TESTING TECHNOLOGY

TTT NEWS NETWORK

KOLKATA | 16 MAY 2025

Indian Railways continues to focus on enhancing passenger safety through modern inspection systems and preventive maintenance strategies. Among various initiatives, Ultrasonic Flaw Detection (USFD) plays a vital role in monitoring the internal condition of railway tracks and welds, helping to prevent failures before they occur.

USFD is a non-destructive testing method that uses high-frequency sound waves to detect internal cracks or defects in rails and welded joints. These flaws, often invisible to the naked eye, can be identified at an early stage through this technique, allowing for timely corrective action and reducing the risk of accidents due to rail fractures.

To carry out these inspections efficiently, Indian Railways uses different types of USFD machines. Single Rail Testers (SRTs) are used for checking one rail at a time, while Double Rail Testers (DRTs) can scan both rails simultaneously. In areas requiring detailed inspection—such as welded joints, switches, and crossings—handheld ultrasonic devices are deployed. For large-scale inspections, Self-Propelled Ultrasonic Rail Testing (SPURT) Cars are operated to cover long stretches of track with greater speed and precision.

Over the past three years, Asansol Division of Eastern Railway has steadily increased its USFD activities. In terms of defect removal, the division recorded 267 removals in 2022–23, followed by 340 in 2023–24, and 269 in 2024–25. These figures reflect continuous track monitoring and timely intervention to address detected flaws.

In addition to defect removals, the division expanded its USFD testing coverage from 3595.068 track kilometres in 2022–23 to 4434.05 track kilometres in 2023–24, and further to 4481.06 track kilometres in 2024–25, indicating a consistent effort to strengthen inspection and maintenance across the network.

Such systematic testing and maintenance contribute to safer and more reliable train operations, aligning with Indian Railways’ broader objective of ensuring secure travel for all passengers.