Indian Railways’ Western Railway zone has introduced a mobile train radio communication (MTRC) system to facilitate direct and continuous communication between the train crew and the control centre and station master. Through effective communication, this technologically advanced system will help in averting train accidents. This new communication system has already been deployed in 105 rakes, operating between Churchgate to Virar over Mumbai’s suburban segment.[1]

Figure 1. Mobile Train Radio Communication system

Figure 1 shows the Long Term Evolution for Railways (LTE-R), the next generation Mobile Train Radio Communication (MTRC) will be deployed to ensure passenger safety and railway organisations to operate more efficiently.[4]

Function of MTRC

The MTRC system will help in tracking, monitoring and aiding to establish the communication between trains and control room by using the train number and cab number code. Thus, the system will ensure that there is smooth movement of rakes. It will also help in preventing the adverse events. It will also help in providing the real time information regarding the train operation during monsoon period. [2]

Design and approval

The provision of a new Digital MTRC system was sanctioned at an outlay of Rs. 5.98 crore which also provides two years warranty and five years Annual Maintenance Charges (AMC). The design and approval for the new Towers was given by IIT and Western Railways headquarter.

Technology used in MTRC

MTRC System is a Terrestrial Trunk Radio (TETRA) based Digital technology. It employs the TDMA on the Air Interface and Internet Protocol based Network Architecture.

Features of MTRC system

The MTRC system have the feature of the Single touch dialling to call Two Section Train Controllers, EMU Controller, Dy. Train Controller and to make Emergency call. It also provides for Automatic Call Answer for the Cab Radios of the Motorman and Guards.

Benefits of the MRTC system:

• It enables single touch dialing to call any of the two section train controllers, Dy Train Controller and EMU Controller.
• MTRC system would also be beneficial in getting real time information of train operation during monsoon period
• Auto Call Answer for taxis, cab radios for Motorman and Guards to receive the audio message is enabled in this device.
• Three controller's contact numbers are fed into the phonebook for easy access while dialling.
• Motormen are allowed to directly communicate the defect of EMU to EMU Controllers reducing detention of other trains.
• Motormen and guards of trains can be simultaneously informed through broadcast calls in case of any mishappening
• Also the passengers of trains can be informed through announcements through this system
• In case the MTRC phone is busy then on making an emergency call goes to DY.TNL[3]

References:

1. https://currentaffairs.adda247.com/indian-railways-install-mobile-train-radio-communication-system/
2. https://www.gktoday.in/topic/what-is-mobile-train-radio-communication-system/
3. https://www.jagranjosh.com/general-knowledge/explained-mobile-train-radio-communication-mrtc-system-1614863749-1
4. https://m.dailyhunt.in/news/india/english/the+logical+indian-epaper-tlogin/railways+to+deploy+high+speed+internet+for+safety+of+passengers-newsid-n227487368

Cite this article:

NithyaSri S (2022), Mobile Train Radio Communication system. pp.48