Rajkot: Indian Railways has approved a comprehensive set of projects worth approximately ₹1,236 crore aimed at significantly upgrading its communication backbone and expanding the Kavach automatic train protection system across multiple zones. The approvals cover three separate proposals, two related to optical fibre and ground wire infrastructure on Central and Western Railways, and one for deployment of Kavach on high-utilisation routes of Southern Railway.

Under the Western Railway component, optical fibre cables (2×48 fibre, on each side of the track) will be laid on the remaining stretches of two divisions in Gujarat, 1,064 km in Rajkot Division and 589 km in Bhavnagar Division, totalling 1,653 km. The project will complete the fibre communication backbone in these divisions at an estimated cost of ₹302.2589 crore.

A robust fibre backbone is essential for the reliable functioning of Kavach and LTE-based train control systems. Completion of this network will ensure that Western Railway’s Kavach rollout progresses without delays. These works form part of Western Railway’s sub-umbrella project valued at ₹2,800 crore.

Overall Impact

These projects are part of Indian Railways’ broader strategy to modernise infrastructure through the integration of advanced communication systems and safety technologies. Strengthening traction-linked communication systems and expanding OFC networks will play a vital role in supporting Kavach, improving operational efficiency, enhancing safety, and enabling future-ready railway operations across the country. DeshGujarat