Central Railway Conducts First ‘KAVACH’ Loco Trials in Solapur Division, Strengthening Train Safety

Central Railway has achieved a major milestone in railway safety with the successful loco trials of the indigenous “KAVACH” system in Solapur Division. Conducted over a 26 km stretch between Dhavalas and Bhalwani stations on September 14, 2025, these trials mark the first implementation of KAVACH on Central Railway. The system is designed to enhance train safety, prevent collisions, and improve operational efficiency across India’s rail network.

The trial event was led by Dharam Veer Meena, General Manager of Central Railway, and attended by senior officers including Maninder Singh Uppal, Principal Chief Signal & Telecom Engineer, and Dr. Sujeet Mishra, Divisional Railway Manager of Solapur Division. The presence of senior leadership underscores the importance of KAVACH as a strategic initiative for Indian Railways.

Critical Safety Features Tested During Trials

During the loco trials, several key safety features of the KAVACH system were rigorously tested. These included SPAD (Signal Passed at Danger) testing at stop signals, block section emergency generation (SOS), station master emergency alerts, and overspeed prevention at turnouts. These tests confirm the system’s readiness to enhance passenger safety and prevent operational hazards in real-time.

Training and Simulation Centre Operationalized at Kurduwadi

The trials coincided with the operationalization of Central Railway’s first KAVACH Stimulation Lab and Training Centre at Kurduwadi, along with a new FAT (Factory Acceptance Test) setup. This facility is intended to provide comprehensive training for railway personnel and create an ecosystem for the deployment of KAVACH and future technologies, reinforcing Central Railway’s commitment to advanced safety protocols.

Significance of the Achievement

Speaking at the occasion, Dharam Veer Meena highlighted the importance of the milestone: “The successful testing of KAVACH in Solapur Division demonstrates Indian Railways’ unwavering focus on passenger safety and operational efficiency.” Completing loco trials in less than six months from the tender award on March 30, 2025, reflects the dedication and efficient execution by the Solapur Division and Central Railway teams.

Inspection of Modernized Facilities

Alongside the trials, Meena inspected upgraded infrastructure at Kurduwadi, including the renovated Loco Pilot & Train Manager Running Room, the Ultra Sonic Flawless Detection building, and an enhanced gang hut. These upgrades complement the KAVACH system by improving operational support and safety monitoring for train crews.

About the KAVACH System

KAVACH is an indigenously developed Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system that prevents SPAD, over speeding, and collisions. It works through real-time exchange of signalling information and locomotive location between station equipment and on-board units via radio links. By enforcing movement authority limits and speed restrictions, KAVACH ensures safer and more efficient train operations across Central Railway’s network.

Central Railway Leads in KAVACH Rollout

Central Railway has been at the forefront of KAVACH implementation, being the first to invite tenders for the system across its zonal network. On August 25, 2025, the 50th KAVACH-fitted locomotive was flagged off at the Electric Loco Shed, Kalyan, Mumbai Division—demonstrating progress toward equipping 730 locomotives in the first phase. Fitment work continues at various loco sheds to ensure comprehensive deployment.

Unified KAVACH Control Centre at Bhusawal

Meena also inspected the state-of-the-art Unified KAVACH Control Centre at Bhusawal Division on September 4, 2025. This central hub monitors the system across 134 locations, using advanced network monitoring systems to supervise real-time operations, enhance efficiency, and strengthen safety measures for train movements.

A Strategic Leap in Railway Safety

The successful trials and simultaneous infrastructure upgrades position Central Railway as a pioneer in adopting cutting-edge safety technology. KAVACH not only mitigates operational risks but also strengthens Indian Railways’ mission to deliver reliable, safe, and efficient train services for millions of passengers daily. By combining technological innovation with rigorous training and supervision, Central Railway is setting new benchmarks in railway safety across the country.