Indian Railways operates thousands of trains every day, covering a distance of over 67,000 km across the country. To ensure the safety and punctuality of these trains, it uses a sophisticated system of automatic signals that control the movement and speed of the trains.
Automatic signals are electric devices that display different colours and shapes to indicate whether the track ahead is clear or occupied, and how fast the train can go. They are connected to sensors on the tracks that detect the presence and position of the trains. They are also linked to a central control room that monitors and regulates the traffic on the network.
Automatic signals have many benefits over manual signals, which rely on human operators to communicate with the drivers. They are faster, more accurate, more reliable, and more efficient. They reduce the chances of human error, collision, derailment, and delay. They also enable higher frequency and capacity of trains on the same track.
Automatic signals have been in use in India since 1957, and today they cover about 70% of the total rail network. Indian Railways plans to upgrade its signalling system to a more advanced technology called European Train Control System (ETCS) by 2030, which will further enhance the safety and performance of its trains.
