RailTel, a public sector enterprise under Indian Railways, engaged in broadband and VPN services, has submitted bids for approximately Rs 5 billion worth of orders for Kavach, the indigenous automatic train protection system, between October and December (Q3 FY25). Additionally, the company is preparing to bid for another Rs 5 billion worth of orders in the first quarter of the next fiscal year (FY26).

For these bids, RailTel has collaborated with Quadrant, an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for Kavach, which recently received design approvals. The bids have been submitted jointly by both companies, and the Railway authorities are currently evaluating the tenders. If RailTel secures these orders, the Kavach implementation is expected to yield margins in the range of 8-10 percent, consistent with the company's other Railway projects.

Kavach is an advanced train collision avoidance system (TCAS) designed to enhance railway safety. It comprises several key components, including radio frequency identification (RFID) technology integrated into the railway tracks and wireless devices. RFID readers are installed in locomotive cabins, enabling real-time communication with track infrastructure. The system also includes radio infrastructure, such as towers and modems at railway stations, and instrument panels in the driver's cabin to display critical information like signals and speed limits.

The Kavach system enhances train operations by alerting drivers to red signals and applying automatic brakes when necessary. It also provides an onboard display of signals, ensuring safer train movement even in conditions of poor visibility. The deployment of this technology is part of the Indian Railways' ongoing efforts to improve passenger safety and operational efficiency across its network.

News source: Communications Today