Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that the Kavach technology will now be implemented in mission mode in the country. The Kavach Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system, known for its high technology intensity and stringent safety certifications, will now be implemented rapidly.
This system aids train operators by automatically applying brakes if necessary and ensures safe train operation during adverse weather conditions. The push for faster installation follows recent tragic train collisions.
Vaishnaw highlighted the significant progress in rail infrastructure, noting that 31,180 km of new tracks have been added over the past decade, surpassing the entire rail network of France. He added that 14 km of new tracks are being laid daily.
Additionally, while 21,000 km of tracks were electrified from independence until 2014, 40,000 km have been electrified in the last decade.
Major railway initiatives
Vaishnaw also outlined several transformative initiatives, including track electrification, the introduction of Vande Bharat trains, the Vande Metro trial, and the rollout of the Kavach anti-collision system. The rail minister also highlighted that 1326 railway stations are being redeveloped in the country which is the biggest redevelopment project in the world.
“Modern technology like Kavach was developed in the country and now it will be implemented in a mission mode in the country,” he said.
Political challenges and rail development
Vaishnaw highlighted the previous lack of technological advancement and investment in Railways, which persisted for decades. According to Vaishnaw, the Railways were once mired in politicisation but have since seen substantial improvements under Modi’s leadership.
“It always lacked technology and investment and nothing changed for decades,” Vaishnaw said.
The railway minister made this statement during his welcome address prior to the flagging off of three Vande Bharat trains by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday. Vaishnaw praised Modi’s leadership, noting that India’s third-term Prime Minister has brought decisive, visionary, and forward-looking changes that are evident across various sectors, including Railways.