Divisions have been asked to increase ground checks, especially at vulnerable points such as switches, bridges, level crossings, high embankments and sharp turns, especially where there are multiple vulnerabilities. Representative image of a derailed freight train. | Photo credit: The Hindu
The Railway Board highlighted switches as a major area of concern for track maintenance, saying that of the 28 derailments due to track-related issues in 2025-26, 18 occurred at points where trains move from one track to another.
Switches, also known as switches and crossings, are those track segments that allow trains to cross from one track to another.
“Of the 28 engineering account derailments (track-related issues) during 2025-26, 18 cases (about 65%) occurred at switches. Therefore, switches should continue to be a major area of focus for track maintenance,” the railway board said in a recent letter to all its zones.
“The analysis of the final causes of derailments recorded in the SlMS (Safety Information Management System) indicates the need for better guidance and guidance to field officers and supervisors in properly identifying and analyzing the causes of derailments,” the board said, highlighting the discussions held during a meeting between the chief track engineers and the member (infrastructure).
During the meeting, the Railway Board Member (Infrastructure) asked officials to prioritize quality track maintenance and addressed the need to move from a renewal-based philosophy to a maintenance-based approach as early maintenance increases reliability, improves track life and reduces the need for premature renewals.
Each division was asked to prepare a consolidated action plan for the line at the level of senior divisional engineers.
“The plan should be comprehensive, covering both rehabilitation and maintenance activities, and its progress should be regularly monitored by the Chief Track Engineer (CTE). While inspection instrumentation is increasing, manual inspections remain essential to fully assess the condition of the track,” the board’s letter said, citing a member (infrastructure) address.
Divisions have been asked to increase ground checks, especially at vulnerable points such as switches, bridges, level crossings, high embankments and sharp turns, especially where there are multiple vulnerabilities.
“The quality of maintenance should ensure durability so that once a site is serviced, it does not require frequent attention. Sites requiring frequent attention should be critically examined and alternative approaches adopted to effectively address recurring problems,” the letter said.
He further urged the officials to take due care while entering the data in the Route Management System (TMS) to maintain the integrity of the data.
Directing the divisions to monitor and expeditiously close the old works related to the track, the board said that 141 ongoing works are more than 10 years old and require ₹1,334 crore for completion.
“Similarly, 1,997 guns older than five years have a handover liability of ₹16,868 crore,” he added.
Published – 06 May 2026 17:00 IST
