As part of the Indian Railways’ plan to modernize its railway network, an 850 km stretch between Mathura and Vadodara has been chosen for trials of European Train Control System (ETCS) level 2. It is estimated that the cost of installing the requisite infrastructure would amount close to Rs 2000 crores.

The European technology is said to aid with mitigation of risks associated with errors committed by loco pilots in terms of overshooting signals or over-speeding. A screen is installed in locomotives to which messages are constantly conveyed with the aid of radio waves. The system is supposed to be especially handy during the fog season as it aids loco pilots in responding effectively and quickly to signals in low visibility.

The proposed trial of the European technology is part of the railways’ Rs 78,000 crore plan to modernise signalling systems across its 66,000 km network. Since the project cost is over Rs 1000 crore, approvals would be required from the Union Cabinet. Before seeking cabinet approval, green light from Railway Board, NITI Aayog and the finance ministry would also be needed.