Mumbai In a proactive move to enhance safety and reliability, the Central Railway (CR) has identified 12 overhead equipment (OHE) structures across the Mumbai suburban network that demand immediate replacement.
This decision follows an incident on May 13, where a tilted pole due to high winds caused significant service disruptions. The structures in question are two-track cantilever booms, essential for supporting the heavy overhead electric wires required for railway operations. These booms, supported at one end and extending outward, allow for overhanging loads without additional support. Their stability and integrity are crucial for the seamless functioning of the suburban railway network.
On May 13, wind speeds reached up to 96 km/h, causing one of these structures to tilt between Mulund and Thane. The incident led to a suspension of services for several hours, inconveniencing thousands of commuters. An inquiry into the matter revealed that the tilting occurred due to rust and weld failure, highlighting the urgent need for maintenance and replacement of these aging structures. To prevent future occurrences, CR has decided to replace all 12 identified structures within the next month. This rapid response aims to mitigate the risks associated with deteriorating infrastructure and ensure the safety of railway operations. The replacement process will involve meticulous planning and execution to minimise disruption to the daily commute.
The CR’s commitment to upgrading its infrastructure is part of a broader effort to enhance the safety and efficiency of the Mumbai suburban railway network. By addressing these critical issues promptly, the railway authority aims to provide a more reliable service to the millions of commuters who rely on this network daily. CR officials have assured that the replacement work will be carried out with minimal impact on train services. “Safety is our top priority, and we are taking all necessary measures to ensure that the overhead equipment structures are secure and reliable,” said a senior CR official.
The recent incident has underscored the importance of regular maintenance and timely upgrades of railway infrastructure. The CR’s swift action in identifying and replacing the unsafe structures reflects a proactive approach to infrastructure management, ensuring that the suburban network remains safe and efficient for all users. CR’s chief public relations officer, Swapnil Nila, said, “All 12 structures provided during the year 2010-11 have been identified and physically checked for any development of cracks in the welding, and no defects were noticed. However, as a safety precaution, these structures are planned to be replaced within a month’s time to avoid similar failures during bad weather and gusty winds during the upcoming monsoon.”
He added, “This step is crucial for ensuring the safety of our passengers. CR is working to complete this task as early as possible, as the structural weakness was highlighted by the high-velocity winds experienced on that day.” The Central Railway’s initiative to replace the 12 unsafe overhead equipment structures within a month is a significant step towards bolstering the safety and reliability of the Mumbai suburban railway network. This move will not only prevent future incidents but also reinforce the trust of commuters in the railway system’s ability to provide safe and efficient service.
