Trains to get new anti-collision device

The suburban trains may soon have the anti-collision device (ACD), which might replace the existing auxiliary warning system (AWS) that is being used for the last 20 years.

The suburban trains may soon have the anti-collision device (ACD), which might replace the existing auxiliary warning system (AWS) that is being used for the last 20 years.

HT Image

A decision would be taken after an ongoing experiment inside suburban trains in Chennai is successful.

The Konkan Railway and the Research, Design and Standard Organisation are testing anti-collision device in Chennai, where suburban trains are currently installed with the train protection warning system, a system similar to auxiliary warning system.

If experiments prove to be successful it can replace the existing warning system on suburban line as well.

“The first set of trial runs have proved to be a success in September and the next one is in November,” BP Tayal, managing director, Konkan Railway.

“If the results turn out to be favourable then anti-collision device can be implemented in Mumbai suburban trains too,” he added.

The ACD works on the principle of microprocessor-based global positioning system, where it will detect blocks on tracks and apply brakes.

While the auxiliary warning system works on the magnetic field where if the train exceeds a certain speed on the stretch then it would automatically put brakes on the train.

Mumbai suburban trains on the Western and Central railway have AWS for over 20 years and officials have been complaining that motormen tend to switch off the button indicating auxiliary warning system, thus troubling functions of this warning system.

The Konkan Railway that has patented anti-collision device is still struggling to get approval from the Railway Board.