Modernization of the Semey branch of the main network: the path to improving safety and transit potential

09-12-2024

The Semey branch of the main railway network, located in difficult climatic conditions, continues to actively develop, introducing modern technologies and improving infrastructure to increase capacity and safety. The region covers sections laid through two regions - Abay and East Kazakhstan, where strong steppe winds and frequent snow drifts create additional difficulties for the operation of the tracks. More than 40% of the route (467.7 km) become difficult to access in winter due to snow drifts. Rivers, reservoirs, lakes, rocky slopes with slopes and small-radius curves run along the railway tracks, which also requires special attention during maintenance.

The Semey branch is actively modernizing its infrastructure to increase transit potential and increase train speed to 120-140 km / h. Work is underway to modernize the track facilities by replacing the wooden base with stronger and more durable reinforced concrete sleepers.

Over the past five years, major repairs have been carried out on 262 km of track. In the Semey region, the work covered 211 km, and in the East Kazakhstan region, given its low traffic intensity, intensive and medium repairs of the track were carried out on 51 km. On the main line, 222 sets of turnouts on reinforced concrete beams were replaced.
In order to completely switch to a reinforced concrete base, major work is planned for 366 km in the coming years. Work has also been carried out to strengthen the station tracks with reinforced concrete sleepers on 73.4 km.

In addition, in 2024, major repairs of the track were carried out on 61.1 km using new materials. Heavy-medium repairs were carried out at 11.2 km, medium track repairs were carried out by our own efforts — 18.6 km, and old rails were replaced at 11 km, and the rail string was laid at 9.2 km. As part of these works, 63 sets of turnouts on reinforced concrete beams were replaced. As a result of the modernization, the quality and safety of train traffic will be significantly improved.

Work was carried out using a complex of track machines ЩОМ, ВПО, ДМ at 114.55 km. Track alignment was also carried out using ДМ and ПРБ at 71.4 km, ВПРС — at 14.383 km.

To prevent livestock from going onto the railway tracks in difficult natural conditions, 194.8 km of fences have been built over the past five years, including 63.5 km this year.

As part of the program to improve working conditions and increase the efficiency of railway workers, since 2018, the transfer of electrical interlocking devices to modular buildings has been organized at 18 stations. To fully complete the transfer work, it is planned to install modules at 29 stations. The transfer of КТСМ (multifunctional technical means complex) post equipment to modular containers has been carried out at all 13 stations. In 2023, digitalization was introduced in the communication line equipment rooms in Oskemen, Semey and Ayagoz with the replacement of old equipment.

To improve sanitary and living conditions at the enterprises, 20 modular buildings have been installed. In 2024, 10 modular buildings were installed. Also in 2023, routine repairs were carried out on 26 buildings by Temirzholsu-Ayagoz LLP, and this year, work is being carried out in 22 buildings. In addition, 26 buildings underwent routine repairs, and 70 containers were converted into heating points for workers in remote areas.

An equally important area is the reconstruction of infrastructure at key stations and terminals. In 2023, the development of design and estimate documentation for the reconstruction of the Semey railway station building and the overhaul of the stations in Oskemen and Ayagoz began. These works will improve conditions for passengers.
In addition, as part of the fleet renewal, 13 new vehicles and one ЧЕТРА T-35 bulldozer for work in difficult conditions were received in 2024.

 

Press service of JSC «NC«Kazakhstan Temir Zholy»