Indigenous KAVACH System Achieves 160 kmph Milestone in Prayagraj Trials
The North Central Railway has achieved a significant breakthrough in railway safety with the successful high-speed trials of the indigenous Automatic Train Protection system, KAVACH. These critical tests were conducted on the Dadri–Tundla section within the Prayagraj Division, where the system demonstrated flawless performance at speeds reaching 160 kilometers per hour.
Vande Bharat Express Rake Completes Pivotal Testing Phase
A major phase of this comprehensive trial series was successfully concluded on Saturday, utilizing a 20-coach Vande Bharat Express rake. Engineers and safety experts meticulously evaluated the KAVACH system's capabilities under demanding high-speed operating conditions. The trials yielded exceptionally precise results in two crucial areas: speed supervision and automatic braking intervention at the target speed of 160 kmph.
Following this successful demonstration with the modern Vande Bharat rake, the testing protocol will now advance to include conventional coach compositions. Detailed and rigorous trials are scheduled for February 16, 17, and 18. These upcoming tests will employ WAP-5 and WAP-7 electric locomotives to validate the system's compatibility and performance across different rolling stock configurations.
Independent Safety Audit and Critical Parameter Testing
All trials are being conducted under the stringent framework of an Independent Safety Audit (ISA). The process is being observed and assessed by the renowned Italian safety certification agency, ITALCERTIFER, ensuring international standards of validation. The testing regimen has focused on several mission-critical operational and safety parameters essential for real-world deployment.
- Kulwa Loop Line Speed Control Test: This test verifies the system's ability to automatically control and reduce a train's speed to safe limits when entering a station's loop line, preventing potential derailments.
- SPAD Prevention: A core function to prevent 'Signal Passing at Danger' incidents, where a train might inadvertently pass a stop signal, a leading cause of collisions.
- Failure Scenario Management: Evaluating how the system responds to and manages various equipment or signal failure situations to maintain safety.
- Auto-Whistling Feature: Testing the automatic activation of the train's whistle at level crossing gates, enhancing safety for road users.
Pathway to Regular Operations and Enhanced Safety
Upon the successful completion of all necessary tests and subsequent regulatory approvals, the North Central Railway plans to commence regular operations of KAVACH-equipped trains on this section at the earliest opportunity. This deployment marks a transformative step for Indian Railways' safety infrastructure.
"The KAVACH technology will not only prevent accidents caused by human error but will also be a milestone in ensuring safe and punctual operation of trains during dense fog and adverse weather conditions," emphasized Amit Malviya, Senior Public Relations Officer for the North Central Railway. The system is poised to significantly enhance operational reliability and passenger safety across the network, particularly in challenging visibility scenarios.
