Railway Tracks to be Monitored Using AI; Railways to Install Modern Composite Sleepers..

Indian Railways is taking a new initiative to enhance railway safety and passenger convenience. Under this initiative, a new type of sleeper (Composite Sleepers) will be installed in the railway network, and an AI (Artificial Intelligence)-based track monitoring system will be introduced. The objective of this plan is to modernize railway infrastructure, streamline maintenance operations, and provide passengers with a superior travel experience. Lighter yet more durable sleepers will replace the existing iron and concrete ones. Additionally, with the aid of AI technology, the condition of the railway tracks will be continuously monitored. These changes are expected to make train travel safer, more comfortable, and smoother—particularly across bridges, at level crossings, and in other sensitive areas.

**Composite Sleepers to Transform Track Design**
The Railways have decided to implement a major change in track design. Composite sleepers will now be installed in specific locations, such as near bridges and at point-and-crossing junctions. These sleepers are lighter than the traditional iron and concrete ones, yet they possess a higher load-bearing capacity. Consequently, train movement will become smoother and more comfortable, especially over bridges and at railway junctions. Another key feature of these sleepers is that they can be custom-manufactured to suit specific site requirements, thereby simplifying their installation and repair. These sleepers can withstand loads of up to 700 kilograms per square centimeter and boast a longer service life. This initiative is expected to result in a reduction in the Railways' maintenance costs.

**Launch of AI-Based Track Monitoring**
Alongside physical infrastructure upgrades, an AI (Artificial Intelligence)-based track monitoring system is now being introduced. Railway inspection vehicles will be equipped with AI devices featuring Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) technology. This technology will facilitate the inspection of the track's foundation, enabling the early detection of defects that are not visible to the naked eye. This ensures that potential major issues are rectified before they escalate into serious problems, thereby significantly reducing the risk of accidents. 

Enhanced Welding Inspection Using New Technology
To further strengthen railway tracks, a new inspection technique known as Magnetic Particle Testing will now be adopted. This technique will detect even minute defects present in welded joints—flaws that are typically invisible to the naked eye but could eventually pose a safety risk.

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