Railways tests metal shield technology

Trials are underway for a new safety technology by Indian Railways, where a metal plate is being fitted to the front of locomotives.

The plate is meant to push aside stones, gravel and debris before the wheels pass over them.

At high speeds, even small stones or debris can cause track damage or potentially lead to derailment. By removing these hazards in advance, the plate reduces the chances of direct impact on the engine and coaches.

The system is currently being tested on select trains and sensitive routes as an experimental measure. If the technology delivers the expected results, it may gradually be expanded to more trains in the future.

Railway authorities have said it is part of broader efforts to tackle track obstruction threats, whether accidental or deliberate.

As per the Railway Ministry, in the last three years, 28 of the total 119 train accidents were attributed to track related issues.