Indian Railways has approved a Rs 4.05 billion (Rs 4.05 bn) signalling modernisation project on Eastern Railway to replace relay-based interlocking systems with Electronic Interlocking (EI) at 32 stations. The work covers 25 Panel Interlocking and Route Relay Interlocking stations and seven Intermediate Block Signalling locations on High Density Network (HDN) and Highly Utilised Network (HUN) routes. The project is intended to strengthen safety, reliability and fault detection on busy corridors.

Many existing installations on these routes rely on ageing relay technology that presents operational limitations. The upgrade responds to issues including non-segregation of clean and dirty wiring, outdated power supply arrangements, inadequate earthing and worn signalling equipment that increase maintenance demands and failure risk. Replacing the legacy kit aims to reduce routine interventions and lower disruption to services.

Electronic Interlocking uses digital control to manage train movements and signalling operations with greater precision and reliability than conventional relay systems. The technology is expected to reduce the probability of signalling failures, improve system availability and enable faster restoration when faults occur. Improved diagnostics and centralised control capability will aid engineers in detecting and isolating problems more rapidly.

The modernised infrastructure will support smoother operations for both passenger and freight services along some of the busiest corridors in the region. The scheme aligns with broader plans to create a signalling ecosystem capable of supporting technologies such as Kavach, Automatic Block Signalling and Centralised Traffic Control. Integration with such systems is intended to enhance capacity and operational resilience.

The approval signals Indian Railways' continued commitment to modernising critical infrastructure and improving the reliability and safety of train services. Implementation on the identified stations will be rolled out as per the project schedule to deliver lasting improvements in operational performance.