In a major step towards strengthening railway safety and modernising signalling infrastructure, Indian Railways has approved the replacement of relay-based interlocking with advanced Electronic Interlocking (EI) at 20 locations in Malda Division of Eastern Railway at a cost of ₹274 crore.

The project will replace the existing Relay Room/Panel Interlocking (PI/RRI) system with Electronic Interlocking (EI) at 18 railway stations and 2 Intermediate Block Signalling (IBS) locations situated on High Utilisation Network (HUN) routes of Eastern Railway.

Modernising Signalling Infrastructure on High-Density Routes

The sanctioned project covers the replacement of conventional relay-based signalling systems with state-of-the-art Electronic Interlocking technology across 20 operational locations, comprising 18 stations and 2 IBS locations in Malda Division.

The modernisation will significantly improve the reliability, efficiency and maintainability of signalling systems while creating a robust technological foundation for handling increasing passenger and freight traffic on one of Eastern Railway's busiest corridors.

Safer, Smarter and More Reliable Train Operations

Electronic Interlocking is an advanced fail-safe signalling technology that automates route setting and signalling functions while substantially reducing the possibility of equipment failures and human error. The upgraded system will improve operational flexibility, minimise service disruptions, enable quicker restoration during faults and enhance punctuality.

The project will strengthen train safety, improve operational efficiency and support faster and more reliable train movement on High Utilisation Network routes, while also providing better readiness for future technologies such as Kavach and other modern signalling systems.

The approval is part of Indian Railways' ongoing mission to modernise signalling infrastructure across the national network through advanced technologies, ensuring safer, smarter and more efficient railway operations.

 *****

Dharmendra Tewari/ Dr. Nayan Solanki/ Ritu Raj