Southern Railway’s Chennai Division has commissioned the Automatic Block Signalling (ABS) system in the Ponpadi–Nagari–Vepagunta–Puttur section, covering 23 km. This upgrade enhances train operations with Electronic Interlocking, Digital Axle Counters, and Optical Fiber Communication. The system allows multiple trains to run simultaneously, improving efficiency, safety, and reducing congestion.
Brief Details:
This major infrastructure upgrade features state-of-the-art Electronic Interlocking (EI), Multi-Section Digital Axle Counters (MSDAC), Integrated Power Supply systems, Optical Fiber Communication, and Lightning & Surge protection systems, ensuring enhanced safety and reliability. The Signal & Telecom, Engineering, and Electrical Departments of Chennai Division collaborated to complete the project in a timely manner.
Key Features of the Commissioned System:
- Advanced Safety Enhancements: Deployment of Electronic Interlocking with Object Controllers (EI/OC), Fire Alarm & Detection Systems, Dataloggers, Earth Leakage Detectors, and robust Ring Earth arrangements at Auto Location Huts (ALHs).
- Improved Train Movements: Provision of 30 Automatic Signals (13 in the Up direction towards Arakkonam and 17 in the Down direction towards Renigunta) to enable simultaneous train operations.
- Uninterrupted Functionality: Deployment of 87 Dual MSDACs, 55 Track Sections, and VRLA battery backup for over four hours at Auto Location Huts.
- Enhanced Communication Infrastructure: Installation of 48-core Optical Fiber Cable (OFC) with path diversity for seamless connectivity between signalling installations.
- Future-Ready Design: The system is designed to integrate with KAVACH, LTE, and Centralized Train Control (CTC) systems without additional civil modifications.
Operational Benefits:
With the commissioning of ABS, the number of trains that can operate within the section has significantly increased. Now, 13 trains in the Up direction (towards Arakkonam) and 17 in the Down direction (towards Renigunta) can run simultaneously, reducing congestion and improving train speeds. Previously, under the Absolute Block Signalling system, only three trains in each direction could run at a time.
This transition to Automatic Block Signalling will not only enhance train operations between Arakkonam and Puttur but also improve the average speed of trains operating between Arakkonam and Renigunta. With the upcoming commissioning of ABS up to Pudi, the entire Arakkonam–Renigunta section will become fully automated, facilitating smoother and faster railway operations.
Conclusion:
The commissioning of Automatic Block Signalling in the Ponpadi–Puttur section marks a major advancement in railway infrastructure, reinforcing Southern Railway’s commitment to modernization and safety. With improved line capacity, enhanced efficiency, and seamless operations, this milestone sets the stage for faster, more reliable train movement in the region.
Source: Southern Railway – Press Release | Images Credit: Southern Railway
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