Indian Railways places a strong emphasis on safety. Thanks to various measures, the number of accidents has significantly dropped over the years. Recent statistics show a remarkable increase in safety spending:
In 2013-14, the budget for safety was ₹39,200 crores. By 2022-23, it had risen to ₹87,336 crores, and for 2023-24, it is set at ₹1,01,662 crores. The upward trend continues, with projections of ₹1,14,022 crores for 2024-25 and ₹1,17,693 crores for 2025-26.
Understanding Kavach
Kavach is an advanced Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system designed in India. It’s complex and aims for top-notch safety standards. Kavach assists train operators by automatically applying brakes if needed and ensures safe operation even in bad weather. The first tests began in February 2016, and it became India’s national ATP system in July 2020.
Here’s how Kavach is implemented:
- Setting up station and track-side equipment.
- Installing RFID tags along the track.
- Building telecommunications towers.
- Laying optical fiber cable for communication.
- Equipping locomotives with Kavach technology.
Recent upgrades to Kavach, version 4.0, enhance location accuracy and integrate better with existing systems. This version is now operational on 1,297 route kilometers, particularly on busy corridors such as Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Howrah.
As of now, Kavach progress includes:
- 8,570 km of optical fiber cable laid.
- 938 telecom towers installed.
- 767 stations equipped with data centers.
- 5,672 km of track-side equipment installed.
- 4,154 locomotives equipped with Kavach.
A new tender aims to equip an additional 6,300 electric locomotives with the latest Kavach version, while training programs are underway for over 48,000 railway staff, including about 45,000 loco pilots.
In another safety initiative, Indian Railways is rolling out CCTV cameras in coaches and locomotives. This move is expected to reduce crime and aid investigations. Currently, around 12,300 coaches and 460 locomotives have been equipped with these cameras.
Historically, investments in safety measures have shown positive impacts on reducing incidents. In 2010, the number of accidents was significantly higher than today. As the railway system evolves and upgrades technology like Kavach, the trend points to a safer travel experience for millions in India.
For real-time updates on these advancements, check the Ministry of Railways announcements [here](https://www.indianrailways.gov.in). Investing in technology and training is a crucial step toward ensuring passenger safety on one of the busiest rail networks in the world.
Source link
Automatic Train Protection System.,Indian,Indian Railway,Kavach
