In a significant technological upgrade, Indian Railways has successfully tested the Direct Drive Electronic Interlocking (DDEI) system at Tajpur station in Western Railway’s Ratlam Division and Dinanagar station in Northern Railway’s Jammu Division.
This marks the first deployment of the system on Indian tracks as part of a pilot project aimed at improving traffic management and safety.
According to railway officials, the project — initiated last year — replaces conventional panel interlocking systems with a modern, computer-based solution that directly controls railway signalling and point machinery. The initiative is part of Indian Railways’ broader effort to modernise its infrastructure using smarter, safer and more efficient technologies. “This is the first time such an advanced system has been successfully commissioned in any Indian Railway zone,” said RS Meena, Senior Divisional Signal and Telecommunication Engineer, Western Railway. “The installation at Tajpur station demonstrates our commitment to replacing outdated equipment with latest technology systems that reduce human error and enhance operational safety,” he added.
The Jammu Division of Northern Railway has also completed installation at Dinanagar station. Higher railway authority highlighted the safety benefits of the new technology, stating that the system ensures train routes are fully secured before signals are cleared, thereby minimising the risk of accidents.
The system automatically verifies that all route points are set and locked, tracks are clear of obstacles and level crossing gates are secured before allowing train movement. It significantly reduces the scope for human error and streamlines train operations.
One of the major innovations in the Direct Drive system is its relay-less design. Traditional electronic interlocking systems rely on electro-mechanical relays to operate signalling equipment.
In contrast, the DDEI system directly interfaces with signalling gear, making it faster and more reliable.
Key technical advantages of the system include:
• Up to 70 per cent reduction in relay usage, lowering maintenance costs
• Use of optical fiber cables instead of copper wires, reducing material requirements by 60–70 per cent and minimising susceptibility to electrical surges
• Real-time monitoring of gear positions, enabling quicker fault detection and resolution
Officials said the new system not only enhances safety but also contributes to more punctual and efficient train operations, ultimately improving the passenger experience.
Indian Railways is now considering rolling out the system at additional stations in the coming years, viewing it as a key step in its mission to become a more modern, secure and tech-enabled transportation network.
“This is a landmark development in Indian Railways’ journey toward digital and operational transformation,” an official said. “The success of the DDEI system is expected to set the benchmark for future signalling upgrades nationwide.”
