What happened: Kavach Automatic Train Protection Version 4.0 expanded and commissioned
The Ministry of Railways commissioned Kavach Automatic Train Protection (ATP) Version 4.0 on 2,633 route kilometres as on 31.07.2026. Kavach is an indigenously developed ATP system with SIL-4 certification (SIL means Safety Integrity Level; SIL-4 is the highest safety integrity level used in such safety standards). Kavach’s core safety function is to help the Loco Pilot by automatically applying brakes if speed limits are exceeded and by supporting safe train operation during inclement weather.
Commissioned stretches reported under Kavach Version 4.0 include route kilometres on the Delhi–Mumbai and Delhi–Howrah corridors, with additional commissioning on specific sections where Kavach was commissioned on 30.01.2026 (about 470 route kilometres total across identified sub-sections).
Background and earlier position: development, trials, and adoption
Kavach’s field trials for passenger trains began in February 2016. Three firms were approved for Kavach Version 3.2 in 2018–19. The Ministry of Railways adopted Kavach as the National ATP system in July 2020.
What changed now: RDSO approval of Version 4.0 and commissioning details
Related current affairs
- Indian Railways approves Kavach Version 4.0 rollout on 660 km in Izzatnagar Division (estimated ₹295 crore)
- Indian Railways approves ₹170 crore for Kavach 4.0 on remaining 712 Rkm of Moradabad Division
- Strengthening railway signalling in Jammu & Kashmir and across India; deployment of electronic interlocking, track circuiting, axle counters and Kavach (ATP)
- Indian Railways reports sharp decline in consequential train accidents; details of safety measures and Kavach ATP deployment
- Indian Railways approves ₹233 crore for Electronic Interlocking at 21 stations in Samastipur Division
- Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approves four multi-tracking rail projects across four states