Corrosion alarms in LHB train bogies threaten Indian rail safety
Railway engineers have reported accelerated corrosion in the bogies of LHB passenger coaches, prompting an emergency safety audit. The issue is linked to toilet leakages, saline air and aggressive cleaning chemicals, raising doubts about the durability of recent upgrades.
The concrete rupture emerged when routine inspections uncovered rusted axle boxes and compromised suspension components on several long‑haul services. Engineers warned that continued operation could precipitate derailments or brake failures, leading the Railway Board to order immediate inspections across the fleet. Underlying tensions stem from a clash between modernised rolling stock specifications and legacy maintenance practices. Contractors argue that the new materials were not designed for the high‑salinity environment of coastal routes, while senior officials blame lax enforcement of cleaning protocols. The downstream casualties include delayed journeys for millions of commuters, a surge in repair expenditures, and heightened public scrutiny of railway safety standards. If left unchecked, the corrosion could erode confidence in the nation’s flagship high‑speed network.
Comments 0