SECR Implements Automatic Signalling on Raipur-Urkura-Mandhar Stretch to Enhance Rail Operations
In a significant move to modernize railway infrastructure, the South East Central Railway (SECR) has introduced automatic signalling on the Raipur–Urkura–Mandhar corridor. This initiative aims to facilitate smoother train movement, increase line capacity, and improve safety on this busy stretch, addressing growing operational demands.
Project Details and Scope
The project covers a total length of 12 kilometers, comprising two key sections. The Raipur-Urkura double line spans 3 kilometers, while the Urkura-Mandhar triple line extends over 9 kilometers. With this completion, the total automatic signalling work finished in the 2026-27 financial year now stands at 21 kilometers in double line equivalent, marking a substantial achievement in railway upgrades.
Advanced Signalling Systems and Features
The new automatic signalling system is equipped with 14 automatic signals and two semi-automatic signals to regulate train traffic efficiently. To ensure real-time tracking and enhance safety, SECR has installed 80 digital axle counters, specifically MSDAC Sigma make models. These counters feature dual detection and media diversity, providing robust monitoring capabilities.
Under this arrangement, the Raipur-Urkura section now includes three auto sections each on the Up and Down lines. The Urkura-Mandhar section is more complex, with four auto sections each on the Up, Down, and bidirectional Middle lines. Additionally, SECR has implemented a Universal Fail-Safe Block Interface (UFSBI) for transmission and a direction setting panel for the Middle line in the Urkura-Mandhar section, further bolstering system reliability.
Infrastructure Enhancements and Benefits
To improve the reliability of the signalling network, a new auto hut has been established at level crossing gate number 417. The implementation of automatic signalling allows multiple trains to travel in the same direction within a single block section. This innovation reduces waiting times, increases sectional capacity, and ensures smoother train movement, ultimately enhancing the overall travel experience for passengers.
SECR officials have emphasized that this modernization effort is part of a continuous strategy to meet increasing operational demands and provide a reliable and efficient railway service. By leveraging advanced technologies like digital axle counters and automatic signalling, the railway aims to optimize network performance and safety standards on critical corridors like Raipur-Urkura-Mandhar.
