Railway Board Launches Safety Drive to Clear Tracks of Loose Engineering Parts

The Railway Board has directed all zones to immediately remove loose engineering parts and materials from track vicinities to prevent misuse by miscreants. This follows recent sabotage attempts using track obstructions. A week-long safety drive starts September 9 to enhance train operation safety.

The Railway Board has issued urgent instructions to all its zones to clear loose engineering parts, rail materials, and other equipment from near the tracks. This directive aims to prevent miscreants from using these materials to threaten train safety.

Following several incidents of sabotage attempts with obstructions such as gas cylinders and cement blocks on tracks, the board mandated a week-long safety drive starting September 9. The initiative's focus is on ensuring all loose engineering materials are removed from track surroundings.

A railway official explained that these items are often left behind after track replacements and repairs, presenting opportunities for misuse. Initial probes into the Kanpur Sabarmati Express derailment suggested that a rail piece was deliberately placed on the tracks, highlighting the urgency of the board's directive. Safety experts also noted that discarded concrete sleepers pose significant threats if left near tracks.

(With inputs from agencies.)