The Asansol Division of Eastern Railway has successfully completed a major infrastructure upgrade at Andal Up Yard by replacing the decades-old mechanical signalling system with a modern electronic interlocking (EI) system. This state-of-the-art technology was commissioned in a planned manner over seven days, which included five days of Pre-Non-Interlocking (Pre-NI) and two days of Non-Interlocking (NI) activities at Andal Up Yard, along with associated works at East Empty Yard (EEY), Andal electronic interlocking and east outer cabin. During this period, traditional mechanical points were converted into motor-operated points.
The commissioning of the EI system marks a significant step towards enhancing passenger safety and operational reliability in the busy Andal area. The new system enables faster and smoother train operations through video display units (VDUs) and advanced train control systems. Equipped with in-built redundancy, self-diagnostic features and microprocessor-based data loggers, the system allows continuous monitoring, preventive maintenance and efficient post-failure analysis. This will help minimise failures, ensure quicker restoration and improve the punctuality of both passenger and freight trains.
To further strengthen safety, multi-section digital axle counters (MSDAC) have been introduced for track detection, replacing traditional DC track circuits. These are highly reliable, unaffected by adverse conditions such as waterlogging or rusted rails, and suitable for high-speed train operations.
With the provision of direct routes, train operations have become faster and more streamlined. Trains from East Outer Cabin towards Andal Up Yard via the Howrah–New Delhi Grand Chord Line can now move without delays, reducing detention on one of the busiest corridors in the country, where premier trains such as the Vande Bharat Express, Rajdhani Express, Shatabdi Express and Duronto Express operate. Similarly, direct routes from Andal East Electronic Interlocking to East Empty Yard ensure better yard management and a smoother flow of both passenger and freight traffic.
This upgrade at Andal Up Yard is a major step towards modernisation, enhanced passenger safety and the overall development of railway infrastructure. It will further strengthen operational efficiency while providing reliable and seamless train services to passengers.