INSPECTION OF TRACK - Object of Inspection

The object of inspection is to:-

1. Asses the riding quality and actual condition of track.

2. Measure track parameters and track geometry.

3. Ensure safe movement of traffic.

4. Implement track policies and solve problems.

5. To have man to man contact for improvement in work and motivation.

6. Welfare/ grievances redresal.

Methods of Inspection:- 

A) Manual Inspection

1. On Foot Inspection:-

Each and Every part of the track is inspected daily by keyman in his beat. Mate and PWS also inspect their gang beat regularly. PWIs and ADENs also inspect their section as per schedule. This inspection is helpful in detailed and close inspection of track componenents, track features and track parameters, but only a

limited area can be covered in a day.

2. Push Trolley / Motor Trolley Inspection:-

This type of inspection is similar to on foot inspection but slightly more length can be covered. The tools and equipment of gangs, Level crossings, bridges, curves, points and crossings, SEJ’s etc. can be inspected in detail. This inspection

is slow and observations are recorded in floating conditions. PWI’s , ADEN’s and sectional DEN inspects their section as per their schedule.

Frequency of inspection

• Sectional PWI---Once a week PWI ---- Once a fortnight

• AEN ---- Once a month DEN ---- Once a quarter

• SRDEN ---- As & when possible T.HOD ---- As & when possible

3. Foot Plate/ Brake Van Inspection:-

Track defects and riding quality of track can be assessed by engine/ brake van of a fast moving train of the section. Irregularities of track are experienced by official in loaded condition. This method suffers with a disadvantage that observations depend upon the riding characteristics of locomotive in addition to subjective elements in it. As far as possible the same engine/ brake van should be used by the official to get good results.

Frequency of inspection

• PWI ---- Once a fortnight AEN ---- Once a month

• DEN ---- Once a quarter SRDEN ---- As & when possible

• T.HOD ---- As & when possible

4. Surprise/ Night Inspection :-

PWI incharge is required to inspect his entire section by foot plate atleast once in

month between sunset and sunrise preferably between odd hours to 4.00 hrs to check the presence/ alertness of gatekeeper, patrolman and watch man deputed at

engineering indicator etc. During these inspections officials should also check the drivers for observing the engineering restrictions correctly.