In light of the recent tragic train collision in Andhra Pradesh’s Vizianagaram district, the absence of the Traffic Collision Avoidance Systems (TCAS) has been a primary point of discussion. A particular focus point is the home-grown system, ‘Kavach,’ whose installation could have prevented the unfortunate incident.
Unpacking Kavach: An Overview
Kavach is an innovative cab signaling train control system optimised with anti-collision features. It is the result of collaborative efforts from the Research Design and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and three Indian vendors. Kavach holds the distinction of being our National Automatic Train Protection (ATP) System. With the ability to adhere to Safety Integrity Level-4 (SIL-4) standards, Kavach serves as a vigilant monitor over the existing signalling system. The system can alert the loco pilot when approaching a ‘red signal’ and ensure safety by applying automatic brakes to prevent overshooting the signal. Additionally, Kavach also transmits SoS messages during emergency situations.
Through its Network Monitor System, Kavach facilitates centralized live monitoring of train movements. Furthermore, the system’s ‘Centre of Excellence’ is hosted by the Indian Railways Institute of Signal Engineering & Telecommunications (IRISET) in Secunderabad, Telangana.
The Fundamental Components of Kavach
In essence, Kavach comprises three crucial components, designated to various railway stations along the intended route for deployment.
The first component revolves around integrating Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology into the railway tracks. This technology leverages radio waves to identify entities or individuals and deploys electromagnetic fields to read wireless device information from afar without any physical contact or line of sight.
Next, the locomotive, which performs the role of the driver’s cabin, houses RFID readers, a computer, and brake interface equipment, collectively forming the second component of Kavach.
The third component includes radio infrastructure such as towers and modems, strategically installed at railway stations to augment the system’s functionality.
Managing Deployment Challenges
Despite its advanced features, deploying Kavach poses a significant challenge due to its cost implications. The deployment cost amounts to ₹50 lakh per kilometre, and at present, it covers roughly 1,500 km. This limited coverage presents a substantial hurdle in the system’s comprehensive implementation across the vast 68,000 km rail network. However, Indian Railways has earmarked ₹4,000 crore within the Signalling and Telecom budget section, out of which ₹2,000 crore are allocated under the Rashtriya Rail Sanraksha Kosh (RRSK) specifically for implementing Kavach.
UPSC Civil Services Examination Question
In the 2022 UPSC Civil Services Examination, the following question was asked: “Consider the following communication technologies: Closed-circuit Television, Radio Frequency Identification, Wireless Local Area Network. Which of the above are considered Short-Range devices/technologies?” The options were: (a) 1 and 2 only, (b) 2 and 3 only, (c) 1 and 3 only, and (d) 1, 2, and 3. The correct answer is (d).
