Indian Railways is set to undertake a major upgrade of its over 100-years-old train control systems in a bid to improve operational efficiency and safety across the world’s fourth-largest railway network. The Railway Board will soon create a detailed blueprint for a modern, technology-driven decision support system aimed at managing operations and traffic more effectively and also speed up trains, reported ET quoting officials.The move comes as growing traffic congestion, delays, and a spate of accidents have raised red flags about the need for urgent reform. The planned overhaul will focus on freight-heavy corridors as well as high-speed and mixed-traffic routes, offering sharper control and streamlined operations.
Indian Railways Set For Big Upgrade
Central to the new system will be an integrated command centre bringing together all departments involved in train operations. This will replace the current siloed and largely manual control system with advanced decision-making tools for better train movement management, route planning, and crisis response. The shift is also expected to ease the burden on train controllers dealing with rising traffic density.Also Read | Indian Railways hikes fares of passenger trains; minor increase in ticket prices effective from July 1, 2025 – check detailsA senior official was quoted as saying that the Railway Board will draw lessons from international systems in countries such as Japan, Russia, Germany, Switzerland, France, and Spain. However, these cannot be adopted directly due to the unique operational complexity of Indian Railways. With long-haul freight trains, semi-high-speed services, and a wide variety of rolling stock, Indian conditions demand customised solutions.
Indian Railways eyes new tech
The urgency for reform gained momentum after a series of train accidents highlighted gaps in the existing control infrastructure. In response, the Railway Board set up a committee to recommend changes in the traffic control system.Chandan Chaturvedee, a retired chief controller who was part of the team that represented the traffic control cadre before the Railway Board, noted that the department had long suffered from understaffing and lack of recognition.”These reforms will ensure the long-standing demands of this crucial department are met,” he said.Also Read | New Tatkal ticket booking rules 2025: Indian Railways announces compulsory Aadhaar authentication from July 1; what it means for passengers
