ANSWER I: Ballast is a prime component of the track that acts as a vibrant medium to transmit from the rail surface the weight of the train down to the formation, the wells set on prepared terrain. It ensures a cushioned and smooth run for the train and precludes the longitudinal displacement of the rail called creep. In ballast-less track, as the name suggests the ballast is replaced by a bed of concrete. The rails rest on rubber pads placed over concrete sleepers, which are fixed on the concrete bed.
The ballast-less track helps to eliminate the evils of dust and noise pollution and proves suitable for underground railway also. So it is also safe for travel.
ANSWER II: The MRTS in Chennai is equipped with a ballast-less track. The rubber pads on which the rails rest help to absorb the vibration caused due to the movement of the train. The cost involved in laying a ballast-less track is more initially but it requires less recurring maintenance cost.
Courtesy : The Hindu
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