Saturday 04 February 2012 Government 2.0: The Road Ahead
Railways VSAT hub to connect remote stations

The system will provide vast number of voice, data and video applications and data connectivity to remote locations of Railways freight operating information system.

New Delhi: A hi-tech satellite based VSAT hub system aimed at strengthening communication facilities across railways network was launched by the Indian Railways here on Wednesday.

Installed by Indian Railways Project Management Unit (IRPMU), the new system has been designed to provide vast number of voice, data and video applications starting from accident sites, issue of railway ticket from remote places and data connectivity to remote locations of freight operating information system (FOIS).

indian-rail.jpgThe new system will also help Indian Railways extend its voice and data connectivity to remote stations where, despite the massive telecom revolution in recent times, fixed and mobile network of telecom operators have not reached yet.

The VSAT network has been commissioned by the US-based Hughes Network.

According to sources, while the existing hired hub service being used by the Railways catered to only 200 terminals, the new system will be able to connect over 1,000 remote locations.

Inaugurating the VSAT hub, the Railway Board Chairman KC Jena said that information technology coupled with voice and data communication network plays a pivotal role in providing a host of passenger related services and enhancing growth and efficiency.

He further said that the satellite based system is considered the best option for providing reliable connectivity for quick deployment of FOIS system at remote locations where freight loading takes place.

Jena appreciated the works being undertaken by IRPMU to provide Disaster Communication System and Unreserved Ticketing System (UTS) terminals utilising VSATs, as these two are very critical applications for Railways.

"Once successful, this will help Railways in proliferating UTS terminals to remote areas and city centres, as well as quick establishment of communication system at disaster management site in providing quick accident relief measures," he added.

Indian Railways is also planning to use this system for online reservation in running trains, train operation and maintenance activities.
—iGovernment Bureau

V-sat + networking

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