Indian Railways to Fully Electronicize Rail Network

14 Jul 2023 CW Team

The Indian Railways is planning to completely electronicize India's rail network over the next few years, over a month after the Odisha train disaster that lost 290 lives. The goal of making the entire train network electronic is reportedly a Rs 1 trillion plan to prevent catastrophes like the rail tragedy in Balasore.

The scheme will use solid-state electronic route relay devices and signals to replace the current electro-mechanical system. The mission mode program's primary goal will be to lower human error rates.

Notably, the decision to fully electronicize the rail network was made after the railway safety commissioner's report determined that the three-train accident in Balasore, Odisha, was caused by signaling mistakes. The unfortunate tragedy that occurred on June 2 resulted in 294 fatalities and close to 1,000 people were injured.

The Railway Ministry is also compiling a list of suppliers for the new system's necessary equipment. According to reports, the new system will also require less frequent maintenance. It will stop the system from becoming tempered.

As part of a Rs 1 trillion strategy to prevent mistakes like the ones that caused the Balasore train tragedy in June, India's extensive rail network will transition to totally computerized signaling over the following 10 years.

The Rail Ministry has previously accepted the Japanese signal system company Kyosan as a supplier. Additionally, the ministry will need new vendors to upgrade the train system. Other suppliers will be chosen through a tender invitation.

Infrastructure Urban

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