Mail News Service
Jamshedpur, Nov 15: Indian Railways is making significant strides in enhancing safety measures with the deployment of the indigenously developed Train Collision Avoidance System (TCAS), known as Kavach. This cutting-edge technology aims to prevent accidents caused by human error or equipment failures. Kavach provides real-time information to train pilots, automatically applies brakes in emergencies, and ensures safe train operations even during adverse weather conditions. By enabling safer travel at higher speeds, it marks a pivotal step in modernizing railway safety infrastructure.
In the South Eastern Railway (SER) zone, the Kavach system will be implemented over key sections, including the 688-kilometer HDN line spanning the Howrah-Kharagpur-Bhadrak and Kharagpur-Tatanagar-Jharsuguda sections. The bidding process for this segment is set to commence on November 25, 2024. Additionally, work for the 1,556-kilometer HUN route has been approved, with tenders scheduled to be invited by January 31, 2025. The remaining 515 kilometres of the project fall under the 2024–2025 Financial Year umbrella plan. The entire Kavach installation across the South Eastern Railway is expected to be completed by March 2028.
The project presents unique challenges due to the complexities of Indian Railways, which include mixed traffic patterns, varying speeds, and diverse types of locomotives and rolling stock. Coordinating these activities requires a multidisciplinary approach and close collaboration with the rolling stock branch. Despite these challenges, Indian Railways remains committed to expediting the installation process.
Nationwide, the latest version of Kavach has already been deployed over 1,548 route kilometres (RKM), with work in progress on an additional 3,000 RKM. Moreover, tenders have been invited for a further 14,735 RKM, reflecting the growing emphasis on safety enhancements. As a vital addition to India’s railway infrastructure, Kavach not only addresses safety concerns but also prepares the rail network for high-speed operations, showcasing Indian Railways’ dedication to passenger safety and operational efficiency.
