20-location signalling upgrade on Eastern Railway to enhance rail safety, improve punctuality and support future-ready train operations

Key Highlights

• Indian Railways has sanctioned a ₹274 crore project to modernise signalling infrastructure in the Malda Division of Eastern Railway.
• Electronic Interlocking (EI) will replace relay-based signalling systems at 20 locations, including 18 railway stations and 2 Intermediate Block Signalling (IBS) locations.
• The project covers High Utilisation Network (HUN) routes, among the busiest corridors on Eastern Railway.
• Modern signalling will improve railway safety, operational reliability, punctuality and maintenance efficiency.
• The upgrade also prepares the corridor for future technologies such as Kavach and other advanced signalling systems.

Indian Railways Invests ₹274 Crore to Modernise Signalling on Eastern Railway’s Malda Division

New Delhi, July 2, 2026: Indian Railways has approved a ₹274 crore Electronic Interlocking (EI) project to modernise signalling infrastructure across the Malda Division of Eastern Railway, further strengthening safety and operational efficiency on one of the network’s busiest rail corridors.

The project will replace the existing Relay Room/Panel Interlocking (PI/RRI) system with advanced Electronic Interlocking at 20 operational locations, comprising 18 railway stations and two Intermediate Block Signalling (IBS) locations on High Utilisation Network (HUN) routes.

Modern Signalling for High-Traffic Railway Corridors

The approved upgrade is designed to enhance the reliability and efficiency of railway signalling while supporting increasing passenger and freight traffic across the Malda Division.

Electronic Interlocking is a computer-based, fail-safe signalling system that automates route setting and train movement controls, significantly reducing the risk of equipment failures and human error.

According to Indian Railways, the new system will deliver several operational benefits, including:

• Improved railway safety.
• Greater signalling reliability.
• Faster fault detection and restoration.
• Reduced maintenance requirements.
• Enhanced punctuality and operational flexibility.
• Better preparedness for advanced technologies such as Kavach.

The project forms part of Indian Railways’ nationwide programme to replace ageing signalling infrastructure with modern digital systems that support safer and more efficient train operations.

Hospitality & Tourism Impact

The Malda Division serves as a crucial rail corridor connecting West Bengal with Bihar, Jharkhand, Assam, the Northeast and other parts of eastern India. Improved signalling reliability and smoother train operations are expected to enhance the travel experience for millions of passengers, particularly during peak tourism and festive seasons.

For the hospitality and tourism industry, better railway performance can improve accessibility to destinations such as Darjeeling, Dooars, Siliguri, Kolkata, Bodh Gaya, and the Northeastern states, benefiting hotels, resorts, restaurants, tour operators and local tourism businesses. Enhanced operational efficiency also supports business travel and strengthens supply chains that serve the hospitality sector.

The project further reinforces Indian Railways’ long-term vision of building a technology-driven rail network capable of supporting India’s expanding tourism economy and regional development.