Indian Railways to Introduce Modern Composite Sleepers

Rail travel will become safer and more comfortable. In a meeting held at the Ministry of Railways, the Railway Minister took several important decisions today.

Among the key decisions, it was decided that sleepers used in bridge approaches and points & crossings will now be composite.

Compared to the existing heavy iron and concrete sleepers, these new sleepers are not only lighter but also capable of carrying higher loads. Their cushioning is better. They are easier to lay and repair.

These sleepers can be designed and installed based on the specific conditions of the location where they are to be used. Their use will improve passenger experience, especially while passing over bridges and points & crossings.

In a review meeting held at Rail Bhavan, New Delhi today with officials, the Railway Minister took this major decision. Compared to concrete and iron, these composite sleepers made from mixed materials can withstand loads of up to 700 kg per square centimetre. These composite sleepers will also last longer. Their use will reduce the cost of maintenance of existing sleepers for the Railways.

In another important decision, it was decided that monitoring of railway tracks will now be done with the help of Artificial Intelligence (AI). For this purpose, a special AI-enabled device will be installed in inspection vehicles. This device, called Ground Penetration Radar, will assess the condition of the track base.(UPDATED ON 9TH APRIL 2026)