Modernisation of Signalling Infrastructure at 21 Stations sanctioned
Indian Railways has approved the provision of Kavach Version 4.0 on the remaining sections covering 712 Route Kilometres (Rkm) of Moradabad Division, Northern Railway, at a total cost of Rs.170 crore.
The approved work will strengthen the division’s railway safety infrastructure through deployment of the indigenous Automatic Train Protection system. The implementation of Kavach 4.0 will provide an advanced safety layer for train operations across the identified sections, the Ministry of Railways said on 1 Sept.
Kavach is an indigenously developed Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system designed to enhance operational safety. It helps prevent Signal Passing at Danger (SPAD), automatically applies brakes when required to avert unsafe situations, controls train speed in critical conditions, and significantly reduces the risk of collisions.
The initiative forms part of Indian Railways’ continued efforts to expand Kavach coverage across its network and modernise railway signalling and train protection systems.
The Railways has also approved the construction of an 11 km bypass line between Adra end and Joychandipahar in South Eastern Railway at a total cost of Rs.272 crore.
The project will provide dedicated path segregation and a bi-directional connection to the upcoming third line, facilitating projected movement of 6.065 freight rakes per day and supporting the anticipated increase in industrial traffic. The bypass will particularly support freight movement associated with SAIL’s 23.40 MTPA iron ore demand and BCCL’s projection of 45 rakes per day.
Enhancing Corridor Capacity and Reducing Congestion
The Adra-Joychandipahar-Sanka bypass will help eliminate existing operational bottlenecks and surface-crossing detentions on the Adra-Joychandipahar section. With the existing network operating at 71% utilisation and freight speeds affected by surface-crossing conflicts, the bypass will help improve operational efficiency and prevent further congestion.
The project is expected to facilitate additional traffic of 8.88 MTPA upon completion. The current line capacity of the Joychandipahar-Adra section is 47.50%, which is expected to increase to 56.45% by 2028-29.
The bypass is part of the Energy, Mineral and Cement Corridor identified for Indian Railways. By providing additional capacity and smoother freight movement, the project will strengthen the transportation of industrial commodities and enable future traffic growth to translate into higher throughput.
The project will strengthen freight infrastructure in the Adra-Joychandipahar corridor by creating additional capacity, reducing surface-crossing conflicts and improving the efficiency of freight operations. It will support growing industrial traffic while enabling more reliable and congestion-free movement of freight on this strategically important corridor.
Another approved project is the Rs.233 crore Electronic Interlocking (EI) at 21 stations of Samastipur Division of East Central Railway (ECR).
The approved work involves replacement of existing Panel Interlocking with Electronic Interlocking at 21 stations of Samastipur Division. The modern signalling system will strengthen railway signalling infrastructure across the division and facilitate the implementation of Kavach, the indigenous Automatic Train Protection system.
Strengthening Railway Safety and Operational Efficiency
The provision of Electronic Interlocking will modernise the signalling arrangements at the identified stations and provide a more advanced signalling infrastructure in connection with Kavach works.
Electronic Interlocking is a modern signalling technology that replaces ageing relay-based systems with computer-based interlocking, ensuring higher reliability, faster fault diagnosis, easier maintenance and enhanced operational flexibility.
The initiative is part of Indian Railways’ continued efforts towards modernisation of signalling systems, strengthening railway safety and enhancing operational efficiency across its network.
The Rs.125 crore Bhavnagar Para (BVP) Yard Remodeling project in Gujarat has been approved. The project will strengthen rail infrastructure in Bhavnagar by creating additional operational capacity at Bhavnagar Para and improving facilities for passengers.
Bhavnagar Para Yard Remodeling to Ease Congestion at Bhavnagar Terminus
The project will help decongest Bhavnagar Terminus (BVC) by shifting stabling and other operational activities to Bhavnagar Para. This will enable smoother train operations, reduce rake detention and help improve punctuality. The additional infrastructure at Bhavnagar Para will facilitate better management of train movements and provide greater operational flexibility.
New Platform and Improved Passenger Facilities
The remodeling work includes four loop lines, one engine reversal line, ART and ARME siding, relocation of the Station and EI building, one high-level passenger platform, widening of the existing platform, extension of the existing Foot Over Bridge (FOB) and construction of one new FOB. The project will also include two Road Under Bridges (RUBs), including one new RUB and extension of an existing RUB, along with service buildings and associated electrical and signalling works.
Passenger convenience will be enhanced through a new high-level island platform, widening of Platform No. 2 and improved FOB connectivity at Bhavnagar Para station. These facilities will provide easier movement and access for passengers.
The Bhavnagar Para Yard Remodeling project is an important step towards strengthening railway infrastructure and improving passenger services in Bhavnagar. By easing congestion at Bhavnagar Terminus and creating additional terminal capacity, the project will support smoother and more punctual train operations. Improved platforms, FOB connectivity and other passenger facilities will further enhance convenience for people travelling to and from Bhavnagar and the surrounding region. fiinews.com
