Delhi–Mumbai Route Embraces Kavach 4.0: Indian Railways' Leap in Safety and Efficiency
Indian Railways’ “Kavach” system, an indigenously developed Automatic Train Protection (ATP) technology, has achieved a critical milestone with the commissioning of its advanced Version 4.0 on the Mathura-Kota section of the high-density Delhi-Mumbai corridor. This significant step, recently confirmed in Parliament, marks a new phase in the phased rollout of this vital safety system. Kavach is designed to prevent collisions and over-speeding by automatically applying brakes, a feature that not only saves lives but also enhances operational efficiency and safety in inclement weather. The project underscores the nation’s commitment to modernising its railway network.
The deployment of Kavach is a multi-faceted and technology-intensive undertaking, drawing parallels to establishing a new telecom network. The system’s architecture includes radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags installed along the tracks, telecom towers with optical fibre connectivity, and integrated systems on locomotives and at stations. These components communicate in real-time to provide continuous supervision of train movements, a feature that is particularly crucial for a network as dense and vast as India’s. This strategic approach ensures seamless and secure train operations while also making the system future-proof for further technological advancements.
From a sustainability perspective, the deployment of Kavach aligns with the broader goal of creating more eco-friendly and resilient infrastructure. By reducing the risk of accidents, the system minimises the environmental impact of potential derailments and other incidents. Moreover, by allowing trains to operate at optimal speeds with greater safety, it contributes to better energy efficiency and a reduced carbon footprint per passenger-kilometre. The indigenously developed nature of the technology also promotes self-reliance and supports local manufacturing ecosystems, contributing to a more sustainable and equitable economic model for the nation.
The financial commitment to the project is substantial, reflecting its national importance. As of June 2025, a total of ₹2,015 crore has been spent on Kavach works, with a further allocation of ₹1,673.19 crore for the 2025-26 fiscal year. The cost to equip track-side and station infrastructure is approximately ₹50 lakh per kilometre, while outfitting each locomotive costs around ₹80 lakh. This investment, while considerable, is a testament to the government’s unwavering focus on passenger safety and its long-term vision for a modern, world-class railway network that serves the needs of a growing population. The project is an example of how technological innovation can be leveraged to create safer, more efficient, and sustainable public services for all.
