These are sections where trains move from one track to another and require precise alignment and regular maintenance.

A concerning safety pattern has emerged in India’s railway network, with a large share of derailments in 2025–26 being traced to a single, routine but critical junction type used for track switching.

According to official Railway Board data, out of 28 derailment incidents linked to engineering causes during the period, 18 occurred at turnouts, also known as points and crossings. These are sections where trains move from one track to another and require precise alignment and regular maintenance.

Railway authorities have acknowledged the need for stronger technical supervision and more focused field inspections. Divisions have been advised to pay closer attention to vulnerable sections such as turnouts, bridges, level crossings, sharp curves and elevated embankments, particularly where multiple risk factors overlap.

In its communication, the Railway Board has also indicated a broader shift in approach, encouraging divisions to prioritise maintenance-led safety management rather than relying primarily on large-scale renewal of infrastructure. The emphasis is on timely upkeep to improve reliability and extend asset life.

The review further highlights long-standing infrastructure challenges, with 141 track-related projects remaining incomplete for over a decade. These pending works, estimated at 1,334 crore rupees, reflect the scale of backlog that continues to add pressure on railway safety and modernization efforts.