NFR implements modern signalling systems

Maligaon, September 18 (MExN): The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) is set to enhance the efficiency and safety of its operations with a major signalling upgrade.

The NFR has introduced the Automatic Block Signalling System (ABS) and Intermediate Block Signalling System (IBS) across key sections of its network as part of a comprehensive modernization plan.

The project targets three primary sections: Old Malda-New Jalpaiguri, New Jalpaiguri-Guwahati, and Kumedpur-Katihar-Mukuria. These upgrades are expected to significantly improve operational efficiency, safety, and capacity within the region.

Old Malda-New Jalpaiguri: This 231 Route Kilometre (RKM) stretch, including Barsoi and Aluabari, will benefit from ABS implementation at a cost of `371 crores. The ABS system has already been commissioned over 66 RKM of this route.

New Jalpaiguri-Guwahati: Spanning 407 RKM, this section, including New Coochbehar and Rangiya, along with the Kumedpur-Katihar-Mukuria stretch covering 64 RKM, will see ABS upgrades at a total cost of `568 crores. In total, 702 RKM of track will be enhanced by this system.

For the fiscal year 2024-25, NFR aims to complete 102 RKM of ABS work on the Old Malda–Barsoi–Aluabari–New Jalpaiguri section and 56 RKM on the New Jalpaiguri–New Coochbehar–Rangiya–Guwahati section. Tendering for the remaining sections is underway, with significant progress already made.

Additionally, NFR has successfully commissioned three Intermediate Block Signalling Systems (IBS) across several sections including Alipurduar-Raja Bhatkhawa, Bagrakot-Sivok, and Azara-Kamakhya. By July 2024, a total of seven IBS systems have been installed. 

The IBS helps in dividing long stretches of track into manageable blocks, allowing for more frequent train operations and improved safety.