Union Minister of Railways, Communications and Electronics & Information Technology, Shri Ashwini Vaishnav inspected the trial of ‘Kavach’ functioning between Gullaguda-Chitgidda Railway Stations on Lingampalli-Vikarabad section in Secunderabad Division of South Central Railway on 4th March 2022.
The ‘Kavach’ was extensively tested. The Hon’ble Minister was on the automatic engine which went from Gullaguda to Chitgidda. The Chairman & CEO, Railway Board, Mr. V.K. Tripathi was on automatic engine that was going from Chitgidda to Gullah Guda. During testing, both the engines came face to face and a collision situation was created.
The ‘Kavach’ system started using an automatic braking system and stopped the engines at a distance of 380 metres. Also, testing was done to cross the red signal; However, the engine did not cross the red signal as the ‘Kavach’ required automatic braking. The automatic whistling sound was loud and clear as the gate signal approached.
Kavach:
The ‘Kavach’ is there to provide protection to trains crossing signals at danger (red) and to prevent collisions. It automatically activates the train braking system if the driver fails to control the train as per the speed limit. In addition, it prevents collision between two engines in which the ‘Kavach’ system is working.
‘Kavach’ is one of the most affordable, Totally Protection Level 4 (SIL-4) certified technologies with a probability of error in 10,000 years. Also, it opens up avenues for export of indigenous technology for the Railways.
‘Kavach’ Features:
- Preventing crossing of signals in danger (SPAD).
- Continuous update of train movement with the location of signals in Driver Machine Interface (DMI) / Loco Pilot Operation cum Indication Panel (LPOCIP).
- Automatic braking to prevent over speeding.
- Auto whistle blowing while approaching the level crossing gates.
