BHUBANESWAR, OCT 16
The East Coast Railway (ECoR) has deployed a state-of-the-art 96-Stone Rail Grinding Machine (RGI96-5) to enhance track safety. Commissioned recently, these machines play a crucial role in improving ride quality, safety, and extending the lifespan of railway tracks.
The RGI96-5 is one of the largest rail grinding machines in the world, stretching over 165 metres in length with eight coaches. It features 96 grinding stones, 48 on each side, strategically angled to eliminate rail surface defects, smooth out irregularities, and restore the rails to their optimal profile. This process not only extends the life of the rails but also ensures safer and more comfortable train journeys.
With the capability to operate at speeds of up to 22 kilometres per hour, the machine can efficiently cover large sections of track, reducing downtime and minimizing disruption to train operations. It has already been successfully deployed in the Waltair and Sambalpur divisions and is currently enhancing tracks in the Khurda division in Odisha.
Besides, ECoR has commissioned a 20-Stone Special Rail Grinding Machine, which was introduced in January 2023. This machine is specifically designed to handle intricate track elements such as switches, crossovers, and level crossings — areas that require special attention for safety and operational efficiency.
The introduction of these advanced rail grinding machines underscores ECoR’s commitment to railway safety and its adaptability to innovative technologies. By investing in cutting-edge track maintenance solutions, ECoR is ensuring reliable, smoother, and safer journeys for millions of passengers across its network.
