37. The availability factor of the diesel locomotives was 86.94% compared with 88.52% in the previous year. The slight decrease was due to the heavier maintenance and repair work falling due, causing locomotives to be withdrawn from service for longer periods. In spite of the heavy work load, adequate motive power was made available at all times during the year to cope with the increased traffic require- ments through careful planning and improved control of work schedules.
38. Carriages and Wagons. All carriages and wagons were main- tained to an efficient state. In addition to routine maintenance and repair, 17 carriages and 5 wagons were overhauled and painted; 35 carriages and 8 wagons were given an intermediate examination and repair which comprised the machining of wheel tyres and the recon- ditioning of electrical equipment and running gears.
39. Electrical Work. All electric lighting, power signals and other electrical equipment on the railway were maintained to a good standard.
40. Work Done for other Government Department. A considerable amount of work was completed for other Government Departments. The more important items included the manufacture of 93 iron castings, 26 bronze castings, 10 aluminium castings, 5 hot water cylinders, 1 night deposit chute system, 70 check blocks, 8 trolleys, 2 bogies and the manufacture and repair of 36 items of hospital equipment.
41. Statistics. The average consumption of diesel oil was 3.24 kg. per engine km. compared with 3.09 kg. per engine km. in the previous year. The increase was attributed to the heavier train loads during the year. Statistical statements relating to the analysis of train and locomotive running, fuel oil running expenses, consumption of lubricants, the cost of repairs to locomotives, carriages and wagons will be found in Appendices VI to IX while classifications of rolling stock are at Appendices X to XIII.
WAY AND STRUCTURES
42. Maintenance. Recruitment of the lower grade staff continued to be the most pressing problem which the Way and Works Section had to face during the year under review. At the end of the year the establishment of labourers and platelayers was 27% below strength and, due to higher salaries offered in the private sector, recruitment
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