The Research Design and Standards Organization has developed an indigenous ATP system with notable features, and it has been implemented on specific networks and routes.
What is Kavach?
The KAVACH ATP system, developed by RDSO in collaboration with the Indian industry, ensures safety in train operations by preventing signal violations, collisions, and activating automatic braking. It also allows for centralized live monitoring of train movements and relay of emergency messages. KAVACH is an affordable and SIL-4 certified technology with a very low probability of error..
How does Kavach work on Railway Systems?
The TCAS system enables communication between the station master and loco-pilot using onboard equipment and RFID tags. It provides advance signal information and applies brakes in case of emergencies or jumping red signals. It also activates the hooter near level crossings, aiding visibility in foggy conditions. The Shalimar-Chennai Coromandel Express and Yeshwanthpur-Howrah Express do not have KAVACH-TACS installed. Implementation of the Kavach system on the Howrah-Kharagpur-Chennai line is pending. The short reaction time and distance at high speeds pose challenges for accident prevention.
Where has Kavach been implemented?
Last March, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inspected the Kavach working system on the Lingampalli-Vikarabad section. South Central Railway (SCR) Zone has implemented Kavach on 1,465 km, covering 77 locomotives and 135 stations. The Indian Railways Institute of Signal Engineering & Telecommunications (IRISET) in Secunderabad is the 'Centre of Excellence' for Kavach and provides training programs for railway staff.
What is the Kavach deployment strategy?
The Railway Board is prioritizing the implementation of the Kavach system on High-Density Routes and sections like New Delhi-Mumbai and New Delhi-Howrah due to higher accident risks. Other networks and routes will also be covered gradually. Medha Servo Drives, HBL, and Kernex have been approved by RDSO to provide Kavach equipment, with two more firms in consideration. Challenges such as closed level crossings, obstacles on tracks, and communication issues have been addressed.
תגובות