NCR completes successful ‘Kavach' system trials to enhance safety
These trials included simulations of both rear-end collisions and head-on collisions, both of which the Kavach system effectively prevented, demonstrating its potential to enhance railway safety substantially.
According to chief public relation officer (CPRO) of NCR, Shashikant Tripathi, for these trials, two locomotives equipped with Kavach technology were utilised: the Kernex Kavach-fitted locomotive 35023 WAP-5 from Ghaziabad and the HBL Kavach-equipped locomotive 30234 WAP-7 from Tughlaqabad.
In the rear-end collision simulation, locomotive 1 was stationed beyond a home signal while locomotive 2 was positioned behind the home signal on an auto signal. When the signal was overridden in locomotive 2, it moved toward locomotive 1. However, due to the Kavach system, locomotive 2 automatically applied its brakes and stopped approximately 326m short of locomotive 1, thereby successfully avoiding a rear-end collision.
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Similarly, in the head-on collision test, locomotive 1 was positioned ahead of a home signal and then reversed direction by changing cabs. After passing two tag readings to establish direction, locomotive 1 came to a halt. Locomotive 2 crossed the advance starter and entered the block section, moving towards locomotive 1. The Kavach system triggered trip mode in locomotive 2, activating the brakes and stopping it over 5km away from locomotive 1, effectively preventing a head-on collision.
The NCR has expressed its commitment to further developing the Kavach system and expanding its implementation across the railway network.
"We are confident that Kavach will usher in a new era of railway safety and ensure safer travel experiences for passengers," said Tripathi.
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