Daily Current Affairs : 10-November-2023

The recent collision of two passenger trains in Andhra Pradesh’s Vizianagaram district has sparked concerns over the absence of Traffic Collision Avoidance Systems (TCAS), particularly the overlooked indigenous system known as ‘Kavach.’ This essay delves into the Kavach system, its development, applications, and the imperative need for its widespread implementation in the Indian Railway sector.

Kavach System: An Indigenously Developed Automatic Train Protection (ATP) System:

The Kavach system stands as a testament to indigenous innovation, crafted by the Research Design and Standards Organisation (RDSO) under the Indian Railway (IR). In collaboration with Medha Servo Drives Pvt Ltd, HBL Power Systems Ltd, and Kernex Microsystems, this Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system aims to revolutionize rail safety.

Components and Communication:
  • Comprising electronic and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) devices, Kavach is strategically installed in locomotives, signaling systems, and tracks.
  • Communication among these devices is facilitated through ultra-high radio frequencies, ensuring swift and reliable data exchange.
  • Logic programming within the system enables precise control over train brakes and issues timely alerts to the locomotive pilot.
Field Tests and Applications:
  • Field tests for Kavach have been underway since 2016, primarily conducted on passenger trains to evaluate real-world effectiveness.
  • Applications of Kavach extend to preventing Signal Passing At Danger (SPAD) and controlling overspeeding.
  • The system is designed to alert and automatically apply brakes when another train is detected within a predefined distance, averting potential collisions.
  • Continuous relay of signals enhances visibility in low-visibility conditions, particularly during adverse weather such as dense fog.
  • Automatic speed control acts as a failsafe, applying brakes if the locomotive pilot fails to do so, ensuring enhanced safety.
Important Points:
  • Kavach System Overview:
    • Developed by RDSO under Indian Railway in collaboration with Medha Servo Drives Pvt Ltd, HBL Power Systems Ltd, and Kernex Microsystems.
    • Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system aimed at enhancing rail safety.
  • Components and Communication:
    • Electronic and RFID devices constitute the Kavach system.
    • Installed in locomotives, signaling systems, and tracks.
    • Communication via ultra-high radio frequencies for efficient data exchange.
    • Logic programming for precise control over train brakes and timely alerts.
  • Field Tests and Applications:
    • Field tests initiated in 2016, focusing on passenger trains for real-world evaluation.
    • Applications include preventing Signal Passing At Danger (SPAD) and controlling overspeeding.
    • Alerts and automatic brakes when another train is detected within a predefined distance.
    • Continuous signal relay for enhanced visibility in low-visibility conditions.
    • Automatic speed control as a failsafe, applying brakes if the locomotive pilot fails to do so.
  • Recent Incident and Urgency:
    • Recent collision in Andhra Pradesh highlights the absence of TCAS, specifically the Kavach system.
    • Underscores the urgency for widespread implementation of Kavach in the Indian Railway sector.
Why In News

The recent collision between two passenger trains in Andhra Pradesh’s Vizianagaram district drew attention to the absence of the Traffic Collision Avoidance Systems (TCAS), specifically the indigenously developed system called ‘Kavach,’ which, if installed, could have averted the tragic incident. This unfortunate event underscores the urgent need for comprehensive implementation and widespread adoption of advanced safety technologies in the country’s railway infrastructure.

MCQs about Kavach: Transforming Rail Safety with Indigenous Technology

  1. What is the primary objective of the Kavach system?
    A. Enhancing passenger comfort
    B. Improving rail infrastructure aesthetics
    C. Revolutionizing rail safety through Automatic Train Protection (ATP)
    D. Reducing travel time between stations
    Correct Answer: C. Revolutionizing rail safety through Automatic Train Protection (ATP)
    Explanation: The Kavach system is designed as an Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system with the primary goal of revolutionizing rail safety.
  2. How does the Kavach system communicate between its components?
    A. Through optical fibers
    B. Using ultra-low radio frequencies
    C. Via satellite communication
    D. Utilizing ultra-high radio frequencies
    Correct Answer: D. Utilizing ultra-high radio frequencies
    Explanation: The Kavach system communicates between its components using ultra-high radio frequencies for swift and reliable data exchange.
  3. What is one of the applications of the Kavach system mentioned in the essay?
    A. Enhancing onboard entertainment for passengers
    B. Controlling overspeeding and preventing Signal Passing At Danger (SPAD)
    C. Beautifying railway station landscapes
    D. Optimizing ticket booking processes
    Correct Answer: B. Controlling overspeeding and preventing Signal Passing At Danger (SPAD)
    Explanation: The Kavach system is designed to control overspeeding and prevent Signal Passing At Danger (SPAD) among its various applications.
  4. Why does the recent incident in Andhra Pradesh underscore the urgency for the Kavach system?
    A. To improve the aesthetic appeal of the railway sector
    B. Due to a decline in passenger comfort
    C. Highlighting the absence of Traffic Collision Avoidance Systems (TCAS)
    D. Emphasizing the need for faster train speeds
    Correct Answer: C. Highlighting the absence of Traffic Collision Avoidance Systems (TCAS)
    Explanation: The recent incident in Andhra Pradesh underscores the urgency for the Kavach system by highlighting the absence of Traffic Collision Avoidance Systems (TCAS), specifically in preventing tragic incidents.

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