Tezzbuzz Desk- Indian Railways has tightened the rules regarding the quality and identity of parts used in trains. In many cases, Railways faced the problem that the name of the manufacturer or the batch number of the damaged parts was not clear. This was making it difficult to fix responsibility for poor quality goods. Now Railways has tightened the rules related to marking and warranty of parts.
Under the new rules, it will be necessary to mention the manufacturer's name, code, serial number, batch number and month and year of manufacture on every spare part supplied to the Railways. The size, location, depth and method of marking should also be as per the standards set by Railway Design and Standards Organization i.e. RDSO. The information also needs to be clear and easily read. Railways have given instructions to zonal railways, wagon manufacturers and inspection agencies to ensure compliance with these rules. Special emphasis will be laid on inspection of critical parts like coupler, draft gear, brake block, compressed-air brake equipment, spring, side bearer, adapter, brake beam, bogie and wear plates.
Now random checking will be done at the time of receiving the goods, during fitting in the train and in the workshop. The scope of investigation will also be increased in routine overhaul depot and examination yard. If marking on any part is found missing, incomplete, incorrect or illegible, the Railways may reject the entire lot of the concerned company. In such cases the manufacturer or vendor will have to replace the item under warranty. The company will also have to bear the cost of return and transportation of supply of new parts along with free replacement of rejected parts in many categories. Railways has also instructed the Quality Assurance Directorate and third-party inspection agencies to strictly follow these rules.