Let’s explore the Token Exchange System in Indian Railways.
The Token Exchange System is a safety mechanism developed during the British era. Its purpose is to ensure the secure operation of single-line railways. In the past, track circuits (which are used today) did not exist. As a result, the Token Exchange System was employed to prevent collisions between trains.
Here’s how it works:
- A token is a small metal ball or disc, clearly marked with the names of the section of track it belongs to.
- The token is physically handed over from the station master to the train driver (loco pilot).
- When the token reaches the driver, it signifies that the line ahead is clear until the next station.
- The driver can proceed to the next station.
- Upon reaching the next station, the driver must deposit the previous token and collect a new one.
- This process ensures that only one train occupies the single track section at any given time.
Although the Token Exchange System is less common today due to modern signaling systems, it remains a fascinating part of railway history.
