The Central Railway has taken a significant step in enhancing safety and efficiency in train operations by commissioning the Block Proving by Axle Counter (BPAC) system on the Vasind-Asangaon section of the Mumbai Division. This system, according to an official statement, plays a pivotal role in ensuring the utmost safety of train operations by meticulously examining the last vehicle of a section, thus confirming the section’s clearance before granting authorization for another train to enter.
Expansion of BPAC Operations
Initially, the BPAC system was exclusively deployed up to Vashind railway station within the Kalyan-Igatpuri section. However, the Railway Board has given its nod for the extension of BPAC operations from Khadavli to Igatpuri, and the work is currently in progress, expected to be completed soon.
Widespread Implementation
The Mumbai Division has already witnessed the successful implementation of the BPAC system across various key sections, further enhancing the safety and efficiency of train operations. Notable sections where the BPAC system has been installed include the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) to KALYAN section, CSMT-PANVEL Harbour line, CSMT-Goregaon line, Kalyan-Karjat section, and Vasai-Panvel-Roha section.
Ongoing and Upcoming Projects
The Central Railway is committed to extending the reach of the BPAC system to additional sections for comprehensive safety and operational improvements. Currently, the BPAC system work is in progress at Asangaon-Atgaon, Atgaon-Thansit, TGR3-TGR2, Panvel-Dapoli sections and will soon begin on Thansit-Khardi, Khardi-Umbarmali, Kasara-Umbarmali, Kasara-TGR3, TGR2-TGR1, and Dapoli-Jasai sections of the Mumbai division.