STN: The Indian Railways will install the Kavach System on 14 rail routes to improve safety and reduce the risk of train collisions. The Railway Board has approved a budget of ₹309.26 crore for this project. One of the key sections in the plan is the Birlanagar–Udimorh rail line, which is 102 km long.
The installation work will begin soon and is targeted for completion by 2025. The plan covers important routes under the Prayagraj, Jhansi, and Agra railway divisions. This step is part of the government’s “Zero Tolerance for Safety” policy.
Key Routes for Kavach System Installation
Some of the main routes selected for the project are:
- Shikohabad–Farrukhabad (103.58 km)
- Dholpur–Sarmathura (70 km)
- Bhandai–Udimod (113 km)
- Lalitpur–Khajuraho (164 km)
- Khajuraho–Mahoba (64 km)
- Et–Kaunch (13 km)
- Ligarh–Harduaganj (14 km)
These routes will see modern safety technology integrated into railway operations.
How the Kavach System Works
The Kavach System is an Automatic Train Protection (ATP) technology. It is designed to stop collisions by controlling train speed and giving real-time alerts to drivers.
And ensures speed limits are followed and helps trains operate safely during low visibility, such as in fog. It also reduces risks during technical failures.
This system can apply automatic brakes if a train does not respond to signals. It communicates between trains and the signalling system to avoid dangerous situations.
Recent Progress with Kavach 4.0
Recently, the Indian Railways installed the latest Kavach 4.0 on the Mathura–Kota section of the busy Delhi–Mumbai route.
According to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, this safety system is fully developed in India. It supports the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” vision and was approved by the Research Designs & Standards Organisation (RDSO) in July 2024.
The Minister also noted that many developed countries took 20–30 years to create similar systems, but India achieved this in a much shorter time.
Why the Kavach System is Important
India has one of the largest railway networks in the world. Safety is a constant priority.
The Kavach System helps prevent accidents, saves lives, and keeps train services running smoothly. It is especially helpful in challenging weather conditions or in sections with high traffic.
By 2025, the 14 routes selected for this project will be equipped with advanced safety features. This will mark a major step in improving railway travel in the country.
FAQs
A: Kavach works for trains running at speeds of up to 160 km/h.
A: Yes. It can be used for trains moving in either direction on the same track.
A: It sends continuous updates to the driver’s cabin and automatically controls the train if needed, ensuring safe operation even in low visibility.
A: Authorities will install it on key passenger and freight routes in the Prayagraj, Jhansi, and Agra divisions, and then expand it to other areas.
A: No. Indian Railways developed this indigenous technology specifically for domestic use.
Indian Railways will install the Kavach System on 14 key routes by 2025 to prevent collisions, boost safety, and ensure smoother train operations even in fog. To read more about railway project updates, click here.
