Kavach 5.0 System

Current context: The Ministry of Railways has announced the implementation of Kavach 5.0, an advanced Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system, to enhance Mumbai’s suburban train services.

Key Features:

• Enhanced Safety: Kavach 5.0 automatically applies brakes if the Loco Pilot fails to respond within safe speed limits, preventing accidents due to human error.​
• Operational Efficiency: Designed to reduce inter-train headway, it enables a 30% increase in train frequency, accommodating approximately 80 lakh daily commuters more comfortably.​
• Implementation Timeline: The system is expected to be fully operational by December 2025.​

Significance:

• Technological Advancement: Demonstrates India’s commitment to indigenous technological solutions in railway safety.​
• Economic Impact: Enhanced train frequency and safety can boost economic activities by improving commuter efficiency and reducing travel time.​