Indian Railways Approves Optical Fibre Network Project for Ahmedabad and Ratlam Divisions

Indian Railways has approved a ₹398.36 crore optical fibre cable (OFC) infrastructure project to strengthen communications across the Ahmedabad and Ratlam divisions of Western Railway. The initiative aims to expand high-capacity digital connectivity across 1,929 route kilometres, supporting advanced signalling systems including Kavach. Approved under a broader programme to deploy Long Term Evolution (LTE) communication infrastructure across the railway network, the project is intended to improve operational reliability, safety systems, and data transmission capabilities for passenger and freight services.

According to an official press release from the Government of India, the Ministry of Railways approved the project as part of the umbrella work titled “Provision of Kavach with LTE Communication Infrastructure on Remaining Routes of Indian Railways (Umbrella Work 2024–25)”. The broader programme carries a sanctioned cost of ₹27,693 crore under the 2024–25 Works Programme (PH‑33).

Strengthening Digital Communications on Western Railway

The approved work will deploy 4×48 optical fibre cable infrastructure across key sections of Western Railway. In total, the project will cover 1,929 route kilometres with 2×48 fibre OFC cables installed along the railway network.

The fibre rollout will span two major divisions:

• Ahmedabad Division: 1,456 route kilometres of optical fibre cable infrastructure
• Ratlam Division: 473 route kilometres of optical fibre cable infrastructure

This work forms part of a Western Railway sub‑umbrella programme with an approved cost of ₹2,800 crore, aimed at strengthening communications infrastructure across the zone.

Supporting Kavach and Modern Railway Signalling

The expanded fibre network will provide the high‑bandwidth communications backbone needed for modern railway signalling technologies. In particular, it will support the implementation of Kavach, India’s indigenous automatic train protection system designed to reduce the risk of collisions by enabling real‑time communication between trains and trackside infrastructure.

Reliable fibre connectivity is essential for transmitting operational data, monitoring train movements, and enabling advanced digital railway services. Enhanced communications infrastructure can also improve network efficiency by supporting faster and more stable data exchange between signalling systems, control centres, and field equipment.

Part of a Broader Digital Transformation of Railways

The project reflects a wider effort by Indian Railways to modernise its infrastructure through digital technologies. Initiatives such as the deployment of advanced analytics, automation, and smart monitoring systems are already reshaping rail operations, as highlighted in India: AI and Technology Revolutionising Rail Travel Experience.

Improved fibre networks also align with broader national connectivity strategies that combine terrestrial networks with emerging communication technologies. These developments complement initiatives described in India: 4G, 5G and Satellite Power Next‑Gen Connectivity, which aim to expand high‑speed digital infrastructure across the country.

By expanding fibre capacity across critical railway corridors, Indian Railways aims to improve the reliability of its communication systems, support safety technologies, and strengthen digital service delivery across passenger and freight operations.