The South Western Railway has initiated a cutting-edge tunnel radio communication upgrade in the Braganza Ghats section. Spanning 26 kilometres between Castle Rock and Kulem on the Karnataka-Goa border, the section is part of the Western Ghats—an ecologically sensitive region and UNESCO World Heritage Site. This stretch is notorious for its steep gradients, dense forests, and treacherous terrain. It’s also a magnet for tourists, owing to its scenic backdrop and the iconic Dudhsagar Falls.
However, with 16 tunnels and several isolated stations like Caranzol, Dudhsagar, and Sonalium, the lack of uninterrupted communication has long been a concern for train operators and railway staff. The ₹12.21 crore project will address these concerns by implementing a state-of-the-art Tunnel Radio Communication System, integrating multiple communication technologies — including VHF, Locotrol, GSM-R, and LTE-R — using a combination of optical fibre backbones, high-gain signal repeaters, and leaky-feeder cables. This ambitious upgrade is scheduled for completion by October 2025.
Once operational, the new system will allow seamless communication between locomotive drivers, guards, station controllers, and railway operations centres, even within the deepest tunnels. The project also aims to support maintenance crews who currently face difficulties in accessing help when working in this remote stretch, where even basic road infrastructure is lacking. This transformation is not just about operational efficiency — it’s also an essential part of creating safer and more sustainable railways in ecologically rich landscapes. The Braganza Ghats, which lie within the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot, demand extra caution due to both natural vulnerability and environmental significance. The ability to instantly respond to mechanical failures, landslides, or wildlife incidents in tunnels is expected to significantly improve disaster response and overall passenger safety.
From a broader perspective, this move aligns with India’s commitment to upgrading railway infrastructure while promoting eco-friendly mobility options. Railways remain one of the lowest carbon-emission modes of transport, and modernisation projects such as these play a crucial role in sustaining that advantage while enhancing public confidence in train travel. This technological shift also underscores the importance of equity in connectivity. Routes that are essential for linking remote regions, especially those with limited road access, require the same level of safety and innovation as urban corridors. Projects like this signal a step in the right direction for bridging that infrastructure gap.
While the implementation will take over a year, the promise of safer operations and improved working conditions for railway personnel offers reassurance. As the Braganza Ghats route becomes more accessible and secure, it sets an example for how rail infrastructure in fragile and complex terrains can evolve without compromising environmental or human safety.
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