August 4, 2025: Western Railway (WR) is set to enhance passenger safety across Mumbai’s suburban rail network by implementing the indigenous anti-collision technology Kavach by the end of next year, officials confirmed on Sunday. The initiative marks a major advancement for one of the world’s busiest commuter rail systems, serving over 30 lakh passengers daily.
Developed under the government’s ‘Make in India’ programme, Kavach is an advanced Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system that automatically regulates train speed, enforces signal discipline, and prevents collisions—even in instances of human error. It is already being deployed on key trunk routes, including the Delhi-Mumbai corridor.
WR currently operates more than 1,400 daily suburban services between Churchgate, Virar, and Dahanu using a fleet of 110 Electric Multiple Units (EMUs). At present, these trains rely on the Auxiliary Warning System (AWS), which offers limited safety features. AWS issues audio-visual warnings and automatically applies brakes if the motorman fails to respond, but has been found inadequate in preventing serious incidents such as Signal Passed at Danger (SPAD).
Kavach, by contrast, provides real-time communication between trains and signalling infrastructure, ensuring continuous speed monitoring and automatic braking in emergency scenarios. It is compatible with existing systems and enables safer operations in low visibility conditions. The technology prevents both rear-end and head-on collisions.
Officials confirmed that work is already underway to retrofit the suburban fleet and mainline locomotives with Kavach. WR aims to cover over 2,358 route kilometres, including the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor, by the end of the current fiscal year.
“Kavach will significantly bolster our signalling systems and passenger safety, while also improving operational efficiency,” said Vineet Abhishek, WR’s Chief Public Relations Officer. The move marks a decisive step towards safer, smarter railway operations in Mumbai and beyond.
Source: Financial Express
