Archive · 30 Sep 2025
Central Railway Pilots Optical Ground Wire for Improved Connectivity
Imagine train tracks with special cables that carry both electricity and super-fast internet.
The Central Railway is trying out this new technology, called Optical Ground Wire, to make trains safer and provide better internet for passengers.
This cable will help with things like the anti-collision system and faster internet.
The railway can also rent out the extra internet capacity to other companies, which could bring in a lot of money.
If it works well, the railway plans to use this technology everywhere to make travel safer and more connected for everyone.
Central Railway is testing Optical Ground Wire (OPGW) technology.
OPGW integrates fiber optic communication with electricity transmission.
The technology aims to improve communication for train operations and passenger connectivity.
The surplus fiber can be leased to telecom operators for potential revenue.
Pilot project launched at the 110 kV transmission line near Asangaon, Thane.
- Who
- Central Railway
- What
- Testing optical ground wire (OPGW) technology
- When
- Began testing on Monday
- Where
- Along its electrified network
- Why
- To improve communication and connectivity
- Technology
- Optical Ground Wire (OPGW)
- Purpose
- Improve communication systems for train operations and passenger connectivity
- Location
- Electrified network of Central Railway
- Pilot Project Site
- 110 kV transmission line near Asangaon, Thane
- Revenue Potential
- Up to Rs 1,000 crore from leasing unused fiber
- Cable Core
- 96-core