Prayagraj: North Central Railway (NCR) has introduced a portable hydraulic tamping machine to improve the speed, efficiency and safety of track maintenance, particularly at isolated locations, yards and sections where loose ballast requires immediate attention.The machine, is designed as an off-track unit and can be easily moved to and from the track and stationed in a siding or yard when not in use. This reduces dependence on large track-maintenance machines for smaller and isolated maintenance requirements.The machine can also be used for maintenance of yard lines and complex points and crossings, where conventional equipment may have limitations. Its portability allows workers to manoeuvre it conveniently.One of the key advantages is its low manpower requirement. The machine can be operated by a maximum of four personnel, substantially reducing the labour and time required for conventional manual packing and tamping. Railway officials said the equipment provides a faster and more cost-effective alternative for such maintenance work.Timely and proper packing of sleepers is expected to improve track stability, enhance the reliability of track parameters and contribute to safer train operations.At present, the hydraulic tamping machine is imported. However, the GM has directed officials to work towards developing an indigenous version under the ‘Make in India’ initiative. The proposed Indian version will incorporate practical improvements based on operational experience with the existing machine, NCR CPRO Dr Shivam Sharma informed.
