The Kharagpur Division of South Eastern Railway has achieved a significant milestone in enhancing passenger safety through a record-breaking ultrasonic flaw detection drive. By successfully inspecting critical track components in record time, the dedicated team has ensured higher safety standards across the rail network. The key highlights of this achievement include:
- 1,097 switch and insulated switch connections were checked in a single phase.
- A total of 1,392 connections were inspected by August 11, 2026.
- The team successfully identified a critical crack in a switch connection, preventing potential hazards.
- 18 staff members from the Ultrasonic Flaw Detection unit were honoured for their dedication.
Ensuring Safety Through Precision
Ultrasonic flaw detection is a technically demanding task that requires extreme precision and skill due to the complex nature of switch assembly components. The inspection team often performs these duties in challenging outdoor weather conditions. By clearing the backlog of pending inspections, the team has significantly bolstered the safety framework of the Kharagpur Division. The timely detection of a hairline crack serves as a testament to the importance of such rigorous maintenance, as it allows engineers to undertake immediate repairs before any accident can occur.
Recognition and Future Preparedness
In recognition of their outstanding contribution to rail safety, the Divisional Railway Manager of Kharagpur, Lalit Mohan Pandey, felicitated the 18 employees of the Senior Section Engineer/Permanent Way/Ultrasonic Flaw Detection unit. The team members were awarded certificates of appreciation and collective cash prizes for their unwavering commitment to duty.
During the same event, DRM Lalit Mohan Pandey also released the Disaster Management Plan 2026-27 booklet. Copies of this manual were distributed among branch officers to ensure that the division remains well-prepared to handle emergency scenarios effectively, further strengthening the overall disaster response mechanism within the Indian Railways network.