Automatic Signalling System Modified - Indian Railways

Automatic Signalling System Modified - Indian Railways

Allahabad: Indian Railways will switch over to Modified Automatic Signalling System to ensure safety of passengers and prevent accidents during foggy conditions of winter. Under the system, train speed is moderated according to the visibility. The signaling system too is being changed for optimum movement of trains in foggy conditions.

Loco pilots and assistant loco pilots driving the trains are being trained and counselled regularly about the various aspects of this signaling mode. Moreover, retro-reflective stickers are being placed on OHE (Over Head Equipments ) poles ahead of railway signals so that drivers get prior information about the approaching signal.

Indian Railways use two types of signaling – absolute and automatic. The modified automatic signalling system is midway between the two. The principle of the absolute block system is to ensure safe operation by preventing more than one train from occupying a defined section of route at the same time. This system is used on double or multiple lines where use of each line is assigned to a direction of travel.

The automatic signalling system takes care of the movement of about three to four trains one after another between two stations. As a result, number of trains between the stations is increased and punctuality is maintained.

However, in the modified automatic signalling system, operational during foggy conditions, movement of about two trains is undertaken between two stations. Though the measure results in delayed movement of trains it reduces likelihood of a mishap due to poor visibility.

To change the signalling system, a fog switch is available on station master’s panel. The station master can change the signalling system in accordance with the foggy weather conditions and interact with the receiving station. The fog switches for the up and down line are separate.

In addition to this, in automatic signalling territories, all modified semi-automatic signal posts have been provided with white and blue bands of retro reflective tapes as specified for modified semi-automatic signals.

Chief public relations officer of North Central Railway Bijay Kumar said “To meet foggy conditions in the winter season, senior divisional operating manager has been given the authority to ply trains under the Modified Signalling System. Safety of passengers is paramount and therefore trains are being plied under Modified Signalling system in the automatic sections during the foggy weather.”