Ensuring reliable rail operations across India´s longest rail-road bridge

The Bogibeel Bridge, India’s longest rail-cum-road bridge at 4.94 km, is a strategically vital link connecting Assam and Arunachal Pradesh over the Brahmaputra River. As the country’s first fully welded steel bridge, it offers durability and reduced maintenance, while significantly improving mobility and regional connectivity. Its operation required a highly reliable railway signalling system to cover a 13 km block section, including the bridge span, where conventional track circuits were unsuitable due to structural and environmental constraints.

Frauscher’s Train Detection System was selected as the ideal solution. Offering SIL 4 safety, flexibility, and proven performance, it was implemented with the Wheel Sensor RSR180 at Tangani Station and Dhamalgaon Block Cabin. A Dual Detection configuration ensured reliability, while media redundancy was achieved through both OFC and Quad mediums, safeguarding against communication failures. The system’s distributed architecture with redundant power and communication further enhanced safety and efficiency.

Key features included co-operational reset functionality to minimise delays, the Frauscher Diagnostic System FDS for real-time monitoring, and patented rail claws for quick, non-invasive sensor installation. With no trackside electronics required and Indian Railways staff trained to operate it, the system delivered a cost-effective, future-ready solution tailored to Bogibeel Bridge’s demanding environment.