Indian Railways has introduced advanced Measuring, Recording, and Instrumentation (MRI) technology to enhance the safety and efficiency of electric traction. The system, mounted on Tower Cars, continuously monitors and records key Overhead Equipment (OHE) parameters such as contact wire height, stagger, and GPS-based asset positioning.
Waltair Division of East Coast Railway has adopted this technology to ensure safe and punctual train operations. Divisional Railway Manager Lalit Bohra said pantograph maintenance is crucial, as the device connects the locomotive to the overhead power lines.
Manual inspections often fail to detect emerging faults in time, leading to disruptions. The MRI system enables real-time monitoring and proactive maintenance, reducing the risk of pantograph entanglements and conductor failures.
Senior Divisional Electrical Engineer (TRD) Shivanad Prasad said the equipment helps assess OHE changes due to maintenance or upgrades, while Senior Divisional Commercial Manager K. Saandeep added that the technology improves safety and punctuality by preventing breakdowns and delays.
Published – July 14, 2025 10:04 pm IST