Why in the News?

The Union Minister of Railways, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, recently provided updates in the Lok Sabha about the progress of Kavach, India’s indigenously developed Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system.

Notable advancements include:

• Deployment of Kavach Version 4.0, approved in July 2024, with enhanced safety features.
• Successful implementation on 1548 RKm and ongoing work on major corridors such as Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Howrah, covering 3000 RKm.
• Plans to equip 10,000 locomotives and expand Kavach to an additional 15,000 RKm of railway tracks.
• Allocation of ₹1112.57 Crores for Kavach implementation in FY 2024-25.

What is Kavach System in Railways?

• It is an indigenously developed Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system designed to enhance train safety and prevent accidents on Indian Railways.
• This advanced system meets the Safety Integrity Level (SIL-4) certification, ensuring the highest level of operational safety.
• Key features of Kavach include:
  • Automatic braking when the train exceeds specified speed limits or when the Loco Pilot fails to act.
  • Assisting safe train operations during adverse weather conditions.