The Kavach signalling system, designed to prevent head-on train collisions, will soon be deployed across key sections of the East Central Railway, beginning with the Sonpur railway division. The system, which ensures automatic braking if two trains enter the same track within a 4-kilometre radius, is expected to significantly enhance passenger safety.
Under the advanced version of Kavach, a device will be installed in the train engine, connected to a satellite-based tower positioned near stations, along with additional units placed intermittently along the tracks. This integrated setup will allow trains to move more safely, especially during low-visibility conditions such as fog.
The first Kavach trial in India was conducted by the South Central Railway. After addressing several issues identified during the initial testing phase, the upgraded and more robust version is now being adopted for installation nationwide.
Survey work for the deployment has already been completed at Hajipur, Sonpur, and Ramdayalu Nagar stations. Engineering, operations, commercial, and signalling departments jointly participated in last week’s inspections at Hajipur and Sonpur, followed by Monday’s survey at Ramdayalu Nagar. The consolidated survey report has been forwarded to the Sonpur division.
A new station is being built east of Ramdayalu Nagar, along with two additional railway lines, and the Kavach satellite tower will be installed in the adjacent vacant area. The project involves an investment of several crores of rupees.
Railway officials stated that the system is equipped to automatically apply brakes on both trains and trigger alarms and signals whenever potential collision risks are detected. Notifications will also be issued simultaneously to the station master, loco pilot, assistant loco pilot, and train manager to ensure rapid response.