Kavach
Topic: Transport and Communication in India · NCERT: Beyond NCERT
Meaning
Kavach ("armour") is India's own automatic train protection system. It was developed by RDSO, the Railways' research and design organisation. Equipment on the train and on the track keeps checking the train's speed and the signals ahead. If the loco pilot (train driver) misses a red signal or speeds, and does not brake, Kavach applies the brakes itself. This helps stop collisions and stops trains from running past danger signals. Its roll-out was pushed after major accidents (verify current progress).
Example
After the triple-train collision at Balasore in Odisha in 2023, there were stronger calls to fit Kavach on busy routes. The aim was to stop human error from leading to a crash.
Don't confuse with
- Vande Bharat Express: an indigenous train set built for speed and comfort. Kavach is a safety system that can be fitted to any train and its route. It is not a train.
Related concepts
- Konkan Railway
- Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link
- Chenab Rail Bridge
- Bogibeel Bridge
- New Pamban Bridge
- Dedicated freight corridor
- Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Rail
- Vande Bharat Express