Question : CRACKS IN RAIL LINES



(a) whether the main reason for train accidents is attributed to cracks in the railway lines and disjoint of welding;

(b) if so, whether the Government have conducted any survey in this regard;

(c) if so, the details of cracks developed in rail lines;

(d) whether the Government conducted regular testing of these cracks;

(e) if so, the instrument used for this purpose along with its capacity;

(f) whether the Government are contemplating to purchase automatic ultrasonic rail testing cars (spart cars) for detecting the incidents of cracks developing in rail lines and disjoint of welding

(g) if so, the number of such cars proposed to be purchased; and

(h) the total expenditure estimated to be incurred thereon?

Answer given by the minister

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI DIGVIJAY SINGH)

(a) No, Sir. Cracks in the Railway lines and disjointing of welding is the reason for only some of the train accidents.

(b) and (c) Do not arise.

(d) Yes, Sir. Railways carry out regular testing of rails for detecting flaws.

(e) Testing of rails is done by Ultrasonic rail testers and a SPURT car. USFD testers are expected to test 600 km and SPURT car 10,000 km track per annum.

(f) & (g) Sir, the Government is considering procurement of two SPURT cars either on purchase or on lease basis.

(h) Rs.35 crores.