Railways to Tighten Safety Measures, Strict Action Against Negligence

Sept 4, 2026 - Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw held a detailed safety review meeting at Rail Bhawan on Thursday, September 3. During the meeting, he gave directions to address technical deficiencies related to signalling in mission mode. With regard to Overhead Equipment (OHE), he asked to ensure necessary action for their maintenance and replacement at locations where the components have completed their prescribed service life.

The Railway Minister stressed on improving the level of maintenance in workshops by paying special attention to the maintenance of coaches, particularly the electrical circuits and wiring related to fire safety. He also asked to pay attention to the maintenance of couplers and wheels of wagons and coaches.

With regard to track maintenance, emphasis was laid on ensuring proper maintenance of point machines, turnouts and fasteners. Wherever fasteners are missing, arrangements were to be ensured for their installation.

Strict action is to be taken in matters of poor quality supplies. In case of any deficiency in the quality of materials related to Signalling & Telecommunication (S&T), OHE, track, coaches or wagons, stringent action was asked to be taken against the concerned supplier. In cases of deliberate negligence, directions were also given to permanently blacklist the concerned supplier.

Minister Vaishnaw asked all officers to establish coordination with the district and State administrations and make advance preparations at locations where there is a possibility of a sudden increase in passenger crowds owing to festivals or fairs.