The New Bongaigaon Workshop (NBQS) under the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has achieved significant progress in the month of July 2025, reflecting its continued commitment towards quality maintenance, innovation and operational excellence.
In terms of coach production and maintenance, the workshop out-turned a total of 78.5 coaches. This includes 24 ICF (Non-AC), 4 ICF (AC), 20 LHB (Non-AC), 14 LHB (AC) including 4 power cars, 6 DEMU trailer coaches, 2 DEMU driving power coaches, 2 NMGHS (POH), 6 NMGHS/NMGH converted coaches and 1 Intermediate Overhauling coach. Additionally, 134 wagons were turned out during the month, along with 11 wagons that were detained due to non-availability of Centre Buffer Coupling (CBC) yokes.
In trolley dispatch activities, the workshop dispatched a total of 108 coach sets, comprising 43 SS1 sets, 20 LHB Non-AC, 23 LHB AC, 52 ICF Non-AC, 7 ICF AC and 6 DEMU sets. Under the wheel dispatch category, NBQS dispatched 223 wheel pairs which included 72 pairs for BCN, 105 for LHB, 42 for ICF and 4 special category wheels.
The workshop continued its focus on upgrading safety and functionality. During July, 5 wagons were converted to the twin pipe air brake system, taking the cumulative total to 262. Notably, all wagons now out-turned from NBQS are 100% twin pipe compliant. Additionally, 27 wagons were modified for door height reduction and door blocking, with a cumulative total of 384 wagons now having this modification. Furthermore, 35 in-house items were manufactured to meet production requirements.
NBQS has also ensured 100% compliance in implementing new design modifications during Periodical Overhauling activities. In terms of environmental and housekeeping goals, the workshop disposed of 326.384 metric tonnes of ferrous and 37.193 metric tonnes of non-ferrous scrap, helping achieve scrap disposal targets and improve workshop cleanliness.
Among key innovations, the workshop successfully developed a safety valve test bench for BTPN tank wagons, designed for accurate testing at pressures ranging from 0.35 kg/cm² to 1.4 kg/cm². This system enhances safety testing efficiency and reliability. In addition, a prototype model of the BTPN tank wagon filling and discharge system was created to improve operational knowledge sharing among workshop staff and supervisors.
Aligning with the vision of Principal Chief Mechanical Engineer of NFR, Coach No. 125001 (LWFAC) was out-turned using the unit exchange method. This comprehensive overhaul included replacement of seat and berth rexin, new PVC flooring, vinyl wrapping, D-cal painting and replacement of major electrical and air brake components, showcasing a modern approach to coach refurbishment.
The NBQS Workshop remains a key pillar in NFR’s infrastructure, playing a vital role in enhancing the safety, reliability, and performance of rolling stock across the zone through its technical expertise and progressive initiatives.
