Central Railway Upgrades Critical Track Junction at Pune Yard to Support Heavier Train Traffic
Central Railway has upgraded a key track junction at Pune Yard by replacing a 52 kg Diamond Double Slip (DDS) point with a stronger 60 kg configuration during a nine-hour maintenance block, strengthening rail infrastructure to support safer and more efficient train operations.
The work was carried out on August 2 between 8 am and 5 pm as part of a scheduled traffic block. According to railway officials, it is the third successful DDS point conversion completed at Pune Yard under an ongoing programme to modernise track infrastructure and improve operational reliability.
A Diamond Double Slip point is a specialised track junction that allows trains to switch between multiple tracks within a limited space. By upgrading to heavier 60 kg rails, the railway expects the junction to handle higher traffic density and heavier trains while improving track durability and reducing maintenance requirements.
More than 200 railway personnel were deployed to complete the work within the allotted block period. The team included Permanent Way workers, engineering and signalling supervisors, specialised Signal and Telecommunication (S&T) staff, blacksmiths and experts responsible for installing glued rail joints.
During the operation, crews replaced several critical track components, including stock rails, tongue rails, crossings, lead rails and switch motors. New glued rail joints were also fabricated and installed to strengthen the overall track structure and improve long-term performance.
The maintenance block also included repair work at Platform No. 1, where damaged platform apron sleepers were replaced and reinforced using epoxy grouting to improve the platform’s structural stability.
Railway officials said the upgrade is part of Central Railway’s continued efforts to strengthen infrastructure at Pune Yard, one of the region’s busiest railway hubs. The improvements are expected to support smoother train movements, enhance operational safety and accommodate increasing rail traffic in the years ahead.
Vineet Gupta is the Founder and Managing Editor of PuneNow, where he leads editorial coverage on Pune’s civic developments, local infrastructure, traffic, and urban governance. With an academic background from the University of Wales and professional experience across journalism, hospitality, finance, and academia, Vineet offers a unique perspective on hyper-local journalism. Based in Pune, he is passionate about empowering residents with accurate, timely news that affects their daily lives, while offering insightful commentary on mindful living, parenting, and community connection.
