New Delhi: Indian Railways approved a ₹200 crore South Eastern Railway OFC project to strengthen digital communication across 1,696.2 route kilometres. The project will improve railway operations by providing a high-capacity optical fibre network across four divisions of South Eastern Railway.
The project includes the installation of a 48-fibre Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) backbone in the Adra, Chakradharpur, Kharagpur and Ranchi divisions. Indian Railways said the upgraded network will support safer, faster and more reliable communication for train operations.
The Adra Division will receive OFC across 545.4 route kilometres. Similarly, the Chakradharpur Division will cover 392.3 route kilometres. The Kharagpur Division will add 339.9 route kilometres, while the Ranchi Division will receive 418.6 route kilometres under the project.
Officials said the South Eastern Railway OFC project would strengthen communication links between stations, control offices and field units. As a result, railway staff will exchange operational data more quickly and coordinate train movements more efficiently.
South Eastern Railway OFC to support modern railway technology
The upgraded fibre network will create a stronger digital backbone for railway operations. Moreover, it will improve the reliability and resilience of communication systems across the South Eastern Railway network.
Indian Railways said the project would also support the introduction of modern railway technologies. It will help improve operational efficiency and prepare the network for future capacity expansion.
Furthermore, the new optical fibre infrastructure will enable faster transmission of operational information and strengthen communication during routine operations as well as emergencies. Better connectivity will also enhance coordination among railway departments and improve overall network performance.
The railway ministry said the approval forms part of its broader infrastructure modernisation programme. It aims to build safer, smarter and technology-driven railway systems through advanced communication networks across the country.
Officials added that the investment would reinforce the digital foundation of South Eastern Railway while supporting the long-term expansion of railway infrastructure and improving passenger services.
