Kavach is an indigenously developed automatic train protection system designed to enhance railway safety by preventing collisions and accidents.
Key Features of Kavach
1. Automatic Braking System: Kavach automatically applies the brakes if the loco pilot fails to do so, preventing collisions when another train is on the same track.
2. Specified Speed Limits: It functions within specific speed limits to ensure safety and efficiency.
3. Collision Prevention: The system is crucial in avoiding head-on collisions and rear-end collisions, thereby enhancing overall railway safety.
Current Implementation Status
1. Initial Deployment: The first field trials began in February 2016, and the system was adopted nationally in July 2020.
2. Existing Coverage: Kavach has been deployed on 1,465 km of track and in 139 locomotives, including electric multiple unit rakes, primarily in the South Central Railway.
3. Future Plans: Tenders have been awarded for approximately 3,000 km on the Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Howrah corridors, with ongoing work on these routes.
4. Expansion Efforts: Preparatory work, including surveys and detailed project reports, is underway for an additional 6,000 km.
Challenges and Criticisms
1. Delays in Implementation: Despite the system’s critical importance, its rollout has been slow, leading to increased risks of accidents.
2. Production Capacity: Currently, only three Indian original equipment manufacturers produce Kavach, and there are efforts to enhance production capacity to scale up implementation.
3. Accident Concerns: Recent accidents, such as the one involving the Kanchanjunga Express, have intensified calls for faster implementation to prevent future incidents.
Importance of Kavach
1. Enhanced Safety: Kavach significantly reduces the risk of human error, which is a leading cause of train accidents.
2. Passenger Trust: Implementing Kavach widely can restore and enhance passenger trust in the safety of the railway network.
3. Technological Advancement: Kavach represents a significant technological advancement in India’s railway safety measures, setting a precedent for future innovations.
Conclusion
Kavach is a vital safety system for India’s railways, designed to prevent accidents and save lives. While its implementation has faced delays, the ongoing efforts to expand its coverage are crucial for enhancing railway safety across the country. Understanding Kavach and its benefits can help appreciate the importance of advanced safety measures in the transportation sector.
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