Hyderabad: South Central Railway completed SCR Kavach trials over 487 route kilometres in 2025–26, surpassing its target under the safety expansion programme.
The zone prioritised safety initiatives throughout the financial year. Consequently, it accelerated the rollout of Kavach 4.0 across multiple sections. Officials credited detailed planning and coordinated execution for achieving higher coverage.
SCR Kavach trials strengthen safety and signalling systems
The SCR Kavach trials covered several important routes. These included Kazipet–Peddampet, Malkajgiri–Kamareddi, Charlapalli–Raghunathpalli, Guntakal–Raichur and Mudkhed–Parbhani.
In addition, teams tested and commissioned loco-based Kavach systems along these sections. As a result, safety mechanisms improved across both track and locomotive operations.
Alongside this progress, the zone also exceeded its Automatic Block Signalling (ABS) target. It commissioned ABS over 479 route kilometres against the planned 357 Rkm.
The ABS system was introduced across key stretches such as Kazipet–Balharshah, Vijayawada–Duvvada and Wadi–Renigunta. This technology allows trains to run safely in the same direction using automated signals.
Therefore, it helps prevent rear-end collisions while improving efficiency. Moreover, ABS increases line capacity and enhances average train speeds.
Officials noted that the system reduces operational costs over time. Hence, it is being prioritised on high-density and Grand Trunk routes.
Sanjay Kumar Srivastava appreciated the Signal and Telecommunications teams for meeting the targets. He said the SCR Kavach trials and ABS expansion reflected strong coordination across divisions.
Furthermore, he stated that both initiatives will remain key priorities in the current financial year. The focus, he added, will stay on improving railway safety and network performance.
