Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has been awarded a ₹22.87 crore contract by the South Western Railway zone of Indian Railways for the deployment of the Kavach automatic train protection system. The initiative, part of India’s indigenous rail safety programme, aims to prevent collisions and strengthen operational reliability across the nation’s rail network.
The contract, formalised through a Letter of Intent on 11 September, signifies a key step in Indian Railways’ mission to scale up Kavach implementation along high-density routes. Under the agreement, BHEL will oversee the design, development, supply, installation, trial, and commissioning of on-board Kavach units in locomotives, as well as trackside equipment at critical locations, including stations, level crossings, intermediate block signals, and automatic block signalling zones. Officials stated that the project is slated for completion within 18 months, with all components being manufactured at BHEL’s Bengaluru facility, a major hub for rail and transportation technology in India. The facility has a strong track record of contributing to national projects in signalling, traction, and rail safety systems. BHEL clarified that the order has been placed by a domestic entity and does not constitute a related-party transaction.
The Kavach system, developed by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO), forms an integral part of Indian Railways’ ongoing efforts to modernise safety infrastructure and reduce human error in train operations. Experts note that such advanced signalling and automatic protection mechanisms are critical in enhancing passenger safety, particularly on routes with heavy traffic density. Industry analysts observe that this collaboration underscores BHEL’s position as a key player in India’s rail modernisation initiatives. By deploying homegrown technology like Kavach, the Indian Railways is not only improving operational efficiency but also fostering self-reliance in critical safety infrastructure. Officials anticipate that the project will serve as a model for further expansion of automatic train protection systems across other railway zones.
BHEL officials highlighted that the on-board and trackside integration of Kavach technology will allow real-time monitoring and control, ensuring that trains maintain safe separation and adhere to signal protocols. This is expected to significantly lower the risk of accidents while enhancing punctuality and operational reliability. Railway experts further emphasised the broader impact of such systems on sustainable transport. By reducing collisions, delays, and operational inefficiencies, advanced train protection technologies contribute indirectly to lowering energy consumption and emissions, aligning with India’s commitment to green and sustainable transportation networks.
The South Western Railway’s Kavach deployment represents a milestone in integrating digital safety technologies with existing rail infrastructure, paving the way for smarter, safer, and more reliable train operations nationwide. As India continues to expand its rail network, projects like this will play a vital role in shaping a modern, equitable, and eco-conscious transportation ecosystem.
BHEL Secures Indian Railways Kavach Contract Enhancing Safety Systems
