'Point Machines, Micro-Tunnelling': How Railways Will Ensure Uninterrupted Local Services During Monsoon – Railways Minister Explains (VIDEO)

Mumbai: In a joint press conference held on April 11 with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared updates on groundbreaking technological advancements in the Indian Railways, particularly in Mumbai. He mentioned the underwater point machine and also the microtunnelling technology.

Point Machine:

One of the major highlights of the press conference was the introduction of point machines capable of operating underwater, a first-of-its-kind innovation by the railway engineers. Union Minister Vaishnaw explained that these machines are fully functional even when the track is submerged, stating, “Even if water reaches above foot-level, trains can still run smoothly thanks to this system.”

These machines, developed through two years of intensive work by Indian railway engineers, are part of a broader effort to ensure uninterrupted rail operations during the monsoon season. Vaishnaw praised the engineering teams for their dedication, calling it a major milestone in railway safety and reliability.

Micro-Tunnelling Technology:

The minister explained that microtunnelling has been carried out in 36 key locations across Mumbai. This technology is primarily used to divert and manage the flow of water on both sides of the tracks, ensuring that rainwater doesn’t accumulate at or around railway tracks.

Microtunnels, constructed beneath tracks and platforms, help drain excess water effectively, keeping the stations functional even during rainfall. Vaishnaw emphasised that this initiative is crucial for maintaining uninterrupted train services during the monsoon season and reflects the Indian Railways’ proactive approach in infrastructure planning.