The 106-km Ernakulam-Shoranur rail corridor, one of Kerala's busiest, is set to receive the 'Kavach' safety system within three years as part of major upgrades to the state's railway operations. The Automatic Block Signalling (ABS) system is also being implemented on this stretch, allowing trains to run at speeds of up to 160 kmph. A senior railway official confirmed that tenders for the 'Kavach' system, which will cost Rs 679.9 million, have been floated, and the project is expected to be fully installed within 540 days from commencement. The ABS installation is progressing and should be completed within two years. These upgrades are expected to reduce travel time and optimise capacity on the over-saturated route. Developed by the Research Design and Standards Organisation (RDSO), 'Kavach' is an indigenous Automatic Train Protection system designed to prevent trains from passing red signals and to avoid collisions. It automatically activates the braking system if the driver fails to comply with speed restrictions. The project includes installing telecom towers, RFID tags, optical fiber cables along the tracks, and GPS equipment in locomotives and stations. P Krishna Kumar, General Secretary of the Thrissur Railway Passengers' Association, highlighted the significance of these upgrades, noting that the Ernakulam-Shoranur section is currently operating at 120% capacity. Additionally, the Railways has completed an aerial survey for a third line on this route. Work is also underway to implement ABS systems throughout the Chennai-Ernakulam corridor to ensure faster and safer rail travel. (TNIE)