Indian Railway Bridge Manual Apr 2026

With over 150,000 bridges crisscrossing the nation—including around 37,000 major spans—the Indian Railways network relies on a robust framework to ensure safety and structural integrity. At the heart of this massive operation is the , the definitive "bible" for railway engineers responsible for the maintenance, inspection, and construction of these engineering marvels.

1. The document classifies bridges into four main types - important bridges, major bridges, minor bridges, and culverts. Indian Railway Bridge Manual

Maintenance isn't just about the bridge itself; it's about the environment it inhabits. The IRBM provides detailed guidance on: The document classifies bridges into four main types

: It details the duties of Assistant Engineers and Assistant Divisional Engineers in inspecting and maintaining structures in a safe condition. Primarily consists of the girder or slab that

Primarily consists of the girder or slab that supports the track.

The IRBM covers the entire lifecycle of a bridge, from sub-structure to super-structure: Description according to IRBM Includes abutments, piers, and wing/return walls. Super-structure