South Central Railway has awarded a contract worth Rs. 21.03 crore to KERNEX–VRRC JV for upgrading Kavach from Version 3.2 to 4.0 in the Sadashivpet Road–Bidar–Parli Vaijnath section of Secunderabad division. The project aims to improve safety through automatic train protection, strengthening India’s effort for indigenous railway technologies under ‘Make in India’ mission.
Introduction:
Marking a pivotal move towards railway safety modernization, South Central Railway, Secunderabad, has awarded a contract to the joint venture of KERNEX Microsystems and VRRC for upgrading the Kavach Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system from Version 3.2 to the latest Version 4.0. The order will cover the Sadashivpet Road (Excluding) – Bidar – Parli Vaijnath – Parbhani (Excluding) section.
The contract is worth Rs. 21.03 crores and is scheduled for completion over a 24-month execution period.
Scope of the Project:
- Project Scope: Upgradation of Kavach from Version 3.2 to Version 4.0
- Route: Sadashivpet Road – Bidar – Parli Vaijnath – Parbhani (South Central Railway)
- Contract Value: Rs. 21.03 Crores
- Duration: 24 Months
About Kavach:
Kavach is India’s indigenous Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system developed to significantly enhance train safety. Designed to prevent collisions, overspeeding, and signal violations, Kavach uses advanced radio communication, RFID, and braking logic to automate safety responses.
With features like automatic brake application, real-time train location monitoring, and driver alert systems, Kavach is a key component of Indian Railways’ modernization mission. The upgrade to Version 4.0 introduces improved reliability, scalability, and integration with newer signaling systems.
Strategic Importance:
This contract plays a vital role in supporting the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative by reinforcing indigenous technology solutions in railway infrastructure. The selected corridor is a part of high-density routes under South Central Railway, making the implementation even more critical.
Indian Railways is pushing for large-scale Kavach deployment across its network, and this upgrade reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing operational safety and reducing dependency on foreign safety systems.
Statements and Industry Outlook:
By securing this order, KERNEX–VRRC JV strengthens its standing as a reliable player in advanced railway safety solutions. The upgrade is expected to set the benchmark for similar projects across other zones.
The project’s success will serve as a reference point for further Kavach implementations in different regions, especially in light of Indian Railways’ goal to roll out Kavach across 35,000 km of its network in coming years.
Conclusion:
The Kavach 4.0 upgrade on the Sadashivpet Road–Bidar–Parli Vaijnath route highlights Indian Railways’ focus on passenger safety and domestic innovation. As the country scales up Kavach deployment, projects like this elevate India’s technological leadership in railway safety and pave the way for future digital transformations in rail operations.
Source: Kernex – Press Release | Image Credit (representational): Southern Railway
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