Pune is set to strengthen railway safety and maintenance infrastructure with the introduction of a specialised tandem wheel lathe machine for Vande Bharat Express trains.
For the first time in the city, this advanced system will be installed at the Ghorpadi railway depot at a cost of ₹21 crore.
The machine is designed to restore the shape of train wheels that gradually deform due to continuous use and friction. Over time, especially after running for around 1.5 to 2 lakh kilometres, the diameter and profile of wheels can change beyond permissible limits.
If not corrected, this can impact train speed, increase vibrations, and pose serious safety risks.
Railway officials stated that Vande Bharat train wheels typically require maintenance within a year due to wear and tear. Any deviation in the wheel’s conical shape can reduce grip on tracks, particularly on curves, increasing the chances of derailment.
Irregular wheels also lead to higher friction, more energy consumption, faster track damage, and uneven braking performance.
The new tandem wheel lathe machine will allow engineers to reprofile wheels without detaching them from the train. Installed below ground level, it enables trains to be positioned directly over it, making the process faster and more efficient. The system uses computerised controls to ensure precision at the micron level.
One of its key advantages is the ability to remove flat spots caused by sudden braking. These flat sections often create loud noise and vibrations during travel, affecting passenger comfort. By restoring wheel balance, the machine will significantly reduce noise, improve ride quality, and enhance overall safety.
“The arrival of the tandem wheel lathe machine in Pune is a significant development. It allows us to correct wheel profiles without removing coaches or wheels. The system is expected to be operational within two months, and about 120 wheels can be serviced every month,” said Hemant Kumar Behera, Public Relations Officer, Railway Department, Pune.
Once operational, this facility will mark a major upgrade in Pune’s railway maintenance capabilities and support the smooth and safe operation of high-speed trains like Vande Bharat.