Reliable train detection in waterlogging-prone Howrah Yard
Train Detection, ServicesIndia

Reliable train detection in waterlogging-prone Howrah Yard

Operator
Indian Railways
Country
India
Partner
MRT Signals Limited
Segment
Main & Regional Line
Application
Yard
Products
FAdC®, RSR180
Year
2020
Scope of project
Train Detection System and Life Cycle Services
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Howrah Yard, located in West Bengal, is one of the busiest and most operationally critical railway yards in India. Frauscher delivered a reliable train detection solution for Howrah Yard, which ensured uninterrupted operations despite waterlogging, while reducing maintenance effort and improving availability.

Howrah Yard in West Bengal is one of India’s most operationally critical railway yards, serving both Eastern Railway and South Eastern Railway with a dense mix of long-distance and suburban traffic. High train frequency means even minor disruptions escalate quickly into significant delays.

Howrah Yard faced demanding environmental conditions - seasonal waterlogging during monsoon periods and worn rail profiles in certain sections - that placed increasing pressure on existing DC/AC track circuits, requiring frequent maintenance interventions and adding operational complexity.

Frauscher implemented the Frauscher Advanced Counter FAdC®, a SIL 4 axle counting system, together with the Wheel Sensor RSR180. A centralised architecture covering 171 detection points across 112 track sections was deployed, with axle counter cubicles installed in the Central Relay Room. The clamp-on RSR180 sensor eliminated rail drilling, simplifying installation and reducing maintenance effort. The system operates with no active trackside electronics, ensuring stable performance in waterlogged environments. Integration with Railnet enabled real-time remote monitoring and proactive maintenance.

The solution’s performance was formally recognised through a Performance Certificate issued by Eastern Railway, and subsequently an Annual Maintenance Contract was awarded in October 2024 – confirming continued confidence in the Frauscher solution.

Reliable operations in all conditions

Consistent train detection during monsoon waterlogging and across worn rail profiles, supporting uninterrupted yard operations.

Reduced maintenance effort

Clamp-on sensor design eliminates rail drilling and allows quick removal during rail replacement, minimising operational disruption.

Improved system availability

Remote monitoring via Railnet enables proactive maintenance and real-time visibility, supporting higher uptime in a high-traffic environment.

Remote diagnostics & monitoring

Integrated with RailNet, Frauscher Diagnostic System FDS provides real-time remote diagnostics, enabling proactive maintenance and rapid issue solving.

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