Indian Railways has upgraded the Muzaffarpur-Hajipur rail section in Bihar to allow trains to operate at a speed of 130 kmph. This change happened after the installation of a modern Thick Web Switch system. The upgrade focuses on the stretch between Ramdayalu Nagar and Turki Railway Station under the Sonpur Rail Division.
What is the Thick Web Switch and how does it help
The Thick Web Switch is a strong and modern switching system that makes the tracks more stable. It is designed to handle high speeds safely and reduces the vibration of the train while moving. This system is more durable than the old switches and requires less maintenance, which reduces the chance of technical failures on the track.
How will this change affect passengers and train speed
Passengers will experience faster travel and better punctuality because trains can now move at higher speeds. The railway officials stated that this is part of a larger plan to improve travel time. While the current limit is 130 kmph, there is a possibility to increase it to 160 kmph in the future. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw previously mentioned that over 23,713 km of tracks nationwide have been upgraded for speeds of 130 kmph and above.
| Feature | Old Switch | Thick Web Switch |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Low | High |
| Vibration | More | Less |
| Maintenance | High | Easy |
| Failure Risk | Higher | Lower |
| Speed Limit | Lower | Up to 130 kmph |