N.F. Railway adopts modern signalling systems

way2barak, 22 Sept : The Northeast Frontier Railway has adopted a significant capacity enhancement project through the implementation of the Automatic Block Signalling System (ABS) and Intermediate Block Signalling System (IBS) across several critical sections of its railway network. There are three key sections benefiting from these development works. They are Old Malda- New Jalpaiguri, New Jalpaiguri- Guwahati & Kumedpur-Katihar- Mukuria. This strategic initiative is aimed at improving operational efficiency, safety, and overall capacity of the zone, as part of an upgradation &modernization plan to cater to the increasing demand for rail services in the region.

The Old Malda – New Jalpaiguri stretch via Barsoi and Aluabari covers 231 Route Kilometre (RKM). The ABS system has been implemented at a cost of Rs 371 crores. in this section which will improve the train-handling capacity of this vital route. In this stretch, ABS has been commissioned in stretch of 66 RKM. Similarly, the New Jalpaiguri – Guwahati section via New Coochbehar & Rangiya, spanning over a stretch of 407 RKM along with Kumedpur – Katihar – Mukuria stretch covering 64 RKM, has also been sanctioned for ABS implementation with a project cost of Rs. 568 crores. In total, 702 RKM of railway track will benefit from the ABS system, enhancing both safety and efficiency over the zone.

For the current FY 2024-25, NFR has set a target of completing 102 RKM of ABS works on the Old Malda – Barsoi – Aluabari – New Jalpaiguri section, and 56 RKM of work on the New Jalpaiguri – New Coochbehar- Rangiya- Guwahati section. Tenders for the remaining sections have already been awarded or are in the process of being finalized, with a considerable amount of work already underway.

NFR has also successfully commissioned 03 Intermediate Block Signalling Systems (IBS) across Alipurduar- Raja Bhat Khawa section & Bagrakot – Sivok section under Alipurduar division along with Azara- Kamakhya section under Rangiya division. With this a total of 07 IBS has been installed till July, 2024 over NFR. IBS plays a critical role in enhancing train operations by dividing long sections of railway into smaller blocks, allowing more trains to run simultaneously with improved safety and efficiency. This system reduces delays, increases line capacity, and enhances the overall reliability of train operations, ensuring smoother and faster transportation for passenger and freight trains.

These infrastructure upgrades are expected to significantly enhance the sectional capacity of the railway network, allowing NFR to manage higher train frequencies with improved safety. The implementation of both the ABS and Kavach systems will reduce the headway between trains, improve punctuality, and provide greater reliability for both passenger and freight services. These advancements will not only improve connectivity in the Northeast but also boost economic activities in the region by facilitating more efficient rail transport.