Pune-Lonavala Railway Section Completes Full Automation; Enhances Capacity and Reduces Human Dependency

Pune, 27th November 2023: On the 26th of November 2023, a significant milestone was achieved as the final stretch of the Automatic Signalling system between Khadki and Pune, covering 5 route kilometers, was successfully commissioned. This accomplishment marked the completion of the entire Automatic Signalling infrastructure along the 64-kilometer Pune-Lonavala section, a development that promises a paradigm shift in railway operations.

The newly commissioned features in the Khadki-Pune section encompass a range of pivotal enhancements, including the commissioning of 2 new Automatic signals and modifications in 7 existing signals. Further strengthening the infrastructure, 9 new track circuits have been brought into operation.

Crucial alterations within the Pune Route Relay Interlocking (RRI) system were executed to accommodate changes in signal aspects. Notably, the provision of 11 auxiliary warning system (AWS) track magnets has been made, along with the installation of Electronic Interlocking covering 112 routes at Khadki.

This comprehensive endeavor also involved the interlocking of 4 lines in the Military yard, adding to the efficiency of the existing 4 main lines. Moreover, the conversion of Alstom track circuits into DC track circuits for 34 circuits, along with the provision of 20 new DC track circuits in the Khadki and Khadki-Shivajinagar automatic section, has been completed.

An extensive overhaul was conducted, including the replacement of 35 point machines, 18 main signals, and 14 shunt signals, emphasizing the commitment to ensuring a robust and technologically advanced railway network.

Notably, the project’s scope also covered the implementation of new wiring for Level Crossing Gate numbers 63 and 62A, dual detection for all track circuits at Khadki, and the provision of display units for automatic signaling in the Visual Display Unit (VDU) room.

Safety measures were prioritised with the incorporation of a fire alarm system comprising 53 detectors with an aspiration system in the Electronic Interlocking room, alongside a standby conventional power supply system equipped with auto-changeover arrangements.

This accomplishment heralds a significant leap in railway technology, ensuring enhanced line capacity for the Pune-Lonavala section while significantly minimizing human dependency in train operations.

Furthermore, within Central Railway, the completion of this section adds to the existing Automatic Signalling infrastructure, which spans a total of 339.14 kilometers across various divisions such as Mumbai, Bhusawal, Nagpur, and Pune.

In conjunction with this achievement, ongoing works in the Central Railway network encompass an additional 61.27 kilometers of Automatic Signalling systems. The anticipated commissioning of these systems in the current financial year is expected to further optimize train mobility, elevate operational speeds, and alleviate congestion in vital sections.

In parallel to the Automatic Signalling advancements, substantial shadow works were executed across the Pune division. These included diverse tasks like curved switch renewal, track tamping, rail replacements, switch expansion, bridge rehabilitation, platform cover shed erection, and track maintenance works, fortifying the railway’s infrastructure comprehensively.