East Coast Railway upgrades Cuttack–Paradip section with automatic signalling amid Rs 800 crore decongestion push

The East Coast Railway (ECoR) has commissioned a modern automatic signalling system on the 83-km Cuttack–Paradip section of the Talcher–Paradip freight corridor, a key route linking Paradip Port.

The upgrade, which was installed earlier last week, is expected to enhance both passenger and freight train operations by allowing reduced headway between trains, smoother traffic flow, and stronger safety protocols.

Advanced features for reliable operations

According to reports, the newly installed system incorporates dual multi-section digital axle counters for accurate train detection, integrated power supply to prevent disruptions, and data loggers to monitor events in real time.

The section has also been fitted with LED signal lamps for better visibility in adverse weather and video display units at stations for live train supervision.

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Safer crossings and improved capacity

As many as 19 level crossing gates have now been interlocked with the signalling system, while all non-interlocked gates have been removed to eliminate risks of road-rail conflicts. The section has been divided into multiple UP and DOWN subsections, enabling smoother traffic handling and increasing overall line capacity.

It is worth noting that the Cuttack–Paradip stretch is a critical freight artery, carrying coal, iron ore, and other bulk commodities to Paradip Port. With the signalling upgrade, the corridor is expected to support higher freight volumes while improving the punctuality of passenger services.

Related infrastructure projects

Earlier last month, the Centre sanctioned the Cuttack–Nergundi fourth line and a rail flyover at Nergundi, at an estimated cost of Rs 802.9 crore. The project, part of the Howrah–Chennai High-Density Network, aims to ease congestion caused by port traffic merging with the mainline at Cuttack.

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The plan includes two new river bridges across the Mahanadi and Birupa, along with Kavach safety features and a 2x25 kV electrification system, allowing trains to operate at speeds up to 130 kmph.