Railways to switch to stoneless tracks at revamped stations

The Indian Railways has decided to switch to ballastless tracks - also called stoneless or slab tracks - at important stations and the ones identified for redevelopment.

This will be a significant upgrade over the stony ballasted track beds that are a common sight all throughout the length of the railways.

Officials aware of the development told ET that a need was felt for the provision of ballastless tracks, especially at railway stations in major cities and important tourist destinations. This decision was made while also keeping in mind the need to improve cleanliness at stations. Dirt collected on slab tracks can easily be washed off, unlike on the ballasted tracks.

Ballastless tracks have smooth concrete or asphalt-like surfaces instead of usual greyish ballast stones that need to be regularly monitored and replaced. This structure is a critical component of railway infrastructure since it keeps tracks in place and curbs train derailments.

Zonal railways have also been asked to include provision for Kavach (automatic accident-protection system), electronic interlocking and yard remodelling at redeveloped stations.

The railways has also decided to explore inclusion of these new features without affecting the scope of original contract wherever station upgrade is being undertaken under EPC mode.