Southern Railway has initiated a major technological upgrade at 237 non-interlocked level crossing (LC) gates. The new sensor-based system is designed to provide digital confirmation of gate closures and eliminate the long-standing dependence on manual verbal communication between gatekeepers and station masters. This initiative comes in the wake of a tragic accident in Cuddalore district, where a collision at an unmanned gate resulted in the death of three children.
According to senior officials, this is the first time an Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled gate closure detection system is being introduced at non-interlocked gates within Indian Railways. The upgrade will remain operational until all the non-interlocked gates are converted to fully interlocked signalling systems. The modernised system includes sensors to detect when a gate is physically closed, which are linked to a relay unit housed in the gatekeeper’s cabin. This unit then transmits a digital confirmation to a monitor in the station master’s room. Upon receipt of this confirmation, the station master can safely clear the signal for train movement. This automated exchange replaces the previous method, where private numbers (PNs) were manually conveyed over telephone lines by the gatekeeper to confirm gate status.
A detailed investigation into the July 8 accident revealed that the gate was left open despite verbal assurance to the contrary. The new mechanism seeks to prevent such lapses by removing sole reliance on human input. Senior officials have issued directives mandating completion of sensor installations by 30 September 2025 across all 237 identified gates in Southern Railway zones. Additional safety measures being rolled out include live CCTV feeds of the gates in station master control rooms, mandatory use of railway-sanctioned communication devices for PN exchange, and stricter accountability protocols. Station masters found violating these procedures will face disciplinary action.
Furthermore, the working hours of LC gatekeepers will be reduced from 12 to 8 hours to reduce fatigue-related errors. Visibility enhancements are also being planned, such as clearing obstructions up to five metres from the tracks to improve line-of-sight for train drivers and road users. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to align Indian Railways with global safety standards and sustainable urban mobility goals. By leveraging automation and digital monitoring, Southern Railway aims to significantly reduce accidents at vulnerable crossings and foster commuter confidence. The adoption of this sensor technology underscores a larger commitment to public safety, operational transparency, and modernisation of India’s high-density rail infrastructure. The digital transition is being closely monitored by Railway Board officials, who view this as a pilot framework for nationwide implementation.
With deadlines in place and oversight mechanisms being strengthened, Southern Railway appears resolute in addressing long-standing safety challenges. The new system has the potential to set a benchmark in railway safety innovation, particularly for semi-urban and rural corridors where non-interlocked gates remain in operation.
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