Modern signalling project across Asansol Division to enhance railway safety, improve operational efficiency and support future-ready rail infrastructure

Key Highlights

• Indian Railways has sanctioned a ₹432 crore project to modernise signalling infrastructure in the Asansol Division of Eastern Railway.
• Electronic Interlocking (EI) will replace relay-based interlocking systems at 27 stations/cabins and one Intermediate Block Signalling (IBS) location.
• The project covers key High Density Network (HDN) and Highly Utilised Network (HUN) routes.
• Electronic Interlocking will improve railway safety, reliability, fault detection and operational flexibility.
• The upgrade supports the implementation of advanced technologies such as Kavach, Automatic Block Signalling (ABS) and Centralised Traffic Control (CTC).
• The project is part of Indian Railways’ nationwide railway modernisation programme.

Indian Railways Invests ₹432 Crore in Advanced Signalling for Eastern Railway

New Delhi, June 30, 2026: Continuing its focus on railway modernisation and operational safety, Indian Railways has approved a ₹432 crore Electronic Interlocking (EI) project for the Asansol Division of Eastern Railway, one of the country’s busiest rail corridors.

The sanctioned project involves replacing 28 relay-based interlocking systems—including 27 Panel/Route Relay Interlocking (PI/RRI) installations and one Intermediate Block Signalling (IBS) location—with modern computer-based Electronic Interlocking technology.

The upgrade will be implemented across high-density and highly utilised rail routes, improving train operations on one of the most critical sections of the Indian Railways network.

Modern Signalling to Improve Safety and Capacity

Electronic Interlocking replaces conventional relay-based signalling systems with advanced computer-controlled technology, enabling safer and more efficient train movement.

Key benefits of the upgrade include:

• Higher signalling reliability.
• Faster fault detection and restoration.
• Reduced maintenance requirements.
• Greater operational flexibility.
• Improved line capacity for passenger and freight services.

The project also complements Indian Railways’ ongoing deployment of next-generation technologies, including Kavach, Automatic Block Signalling (ABS) and Centralised Traffic Control (CTC), creating a stronger digital foundation for future railway operations.

According to Indian Railways, the investment will enhance safety standards while supporting faster and more efficient train operations on one of the country’s busiest rail networks.

Hospitality & Tourism Impact

The modernisation of signalling infrastructure on the Eastern Railway network is expected to improve train reliability, punctuality and operational efficiency, delivering a better travel experience for passengers. The Asansol Division serves as an important gateway connecting West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar and neighbouring regions, supporting both leisure and business travel.

For the hospitality and tourism industry, improved rail operations can contribute to smoother connectivity for tourists visiting heritage destinations, religious circuits and urban centres, while also benefiting hotels, restaurants, travel agencies and local businesses that depend on consistent rail services.

The project further strengthens Indian Railways’ long-term strategy of building a safer, technology-driven transport network capable of supporting India’s growing tourism, hospitality and economic development goals.