What is Kavach?
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It is India’s own automatic protection system, which is in development since 2012, under the name Train Collision Avoidance System (TCAS), which got rechristened Kavach or “armour”.
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It is a set of electronic devices and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) devices installed in locomotives, in the signalling system as well as the tracks.
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They connect to each other using ultra high radio frequencies to control the brakes of trains and also alert drivers, all based on the logic programmed into them.
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While now Kavach uses Ultra High Frequency, work is on to make it compatible with 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) technology and make the product for global markets.
Features of Kavach:
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Safety:
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The Kavach system will help prevent accidents on rail tracks like collision of trains.
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Once the system is activated, all trains within a 5-km range will halt to provide protection for trains on adjacent tracks.
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Currently, the loco-pilots or assistant loco-pilots have to look out for caution signs and signals.
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Cost:
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It will only cost Rs 50 lakh per kilometre to operate in comparison to about Rs 2 crore worldwide.
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Communication:
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It will also include stationary equipment to gather signalling inputs and relay them to a central system to enable seamless communication with the train crew and stations.
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