The Hyderabad-based Kernex-VRRC consortium has been awarded a significant contract worth ₹311 crore by Southern Railway (SR) to implement Kavach, India’s indigenously developed Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system. This project marks a major step forward in enhancing railway safety across Southern Railway’s Chennai Division.
The ₹311 crore contract awarded to the Kernex-VRRC consortium by Southern Railway is structured in two key segments aimed at bolstering rail safety and operational efficiency. The first segment, valued at ₹173 crore, focuses on deploying the Kavach system on the critical Chennai-Gudur, Chennai-Arakonam, and Arakonam-Renigunta routes. These high-traffic corridors are vital to the region’s rail network, and the installation of Kavach is expected to significantly reduce the risk of train collisions, thereby enhancing safety for both passengers and operators.
The second segment of the project, worth ₹138 crore, will focus on the Arakonam-Jolarpettai route. This phase of the project will not only include the implementation of the Kavach system but will also involve the establishment of a robust communication network. The project will feature the construction of towers and the installation of 48-fiber Optical Fiber Cable (OFC), ensuring a reliable backbone for the system’s communication and safety protocols.
This ambitious project highlights Southern Railway’s commitment to upgrading its infrastructure and safety standards. By deploying the Kavach system across these key sections, the consortium is playing a crucial role in advancing Indian Railways’ efforts to modernize the network and enhance operational efficiency.
The Kernex Micro Systems division, a key player in the joint venture, holds a 60% stake in the consortium. The successful award of this contract underscores the growing adoption of the Kavach system within Indian Railways, enhancing both safety and operational efficiency.
This development aligns with Southern Railway’s continued commitment to improving railway safety standards and modernizing its infrastructure. By leveraging Kavach, Southern Railway aims to ensure greater protection for passengers and operational reliability. The consortium’s successful bid is a testament to its expertise and commitment to advancing India’s railway modernization efforts, as well as its contribution to the safety of the country’s rail infrastructure.
Kernex Micro Systems is a leading player in the development and deployment of advanced railway technologies in India, with a focus on Automatic Train Protection (ATP) systems, signal systems, and modern rail safety solutions. Vigilant Railway & Rail Communication (VRRC) is a leading company specializing in railway signaling, communication, and control technologies. With a strong commitment to improving the efficiency and safety of railways, VRRC is focused on the development and deployment of state-of-the-art solutions for modernizing railway operations.
