Southern Railway has introduced three indigenously developed digital applications aimed at improving operational safety, streamlining field processes and reducing dependence on paper-based systems across its network. The newly launched applications, e-TSR (Electronic Train Signal Register), RBMS (Railway Block Management System) and DOST (Delivering Occupational Safety on Track) have been designed in-house to digitise critical railway operations.
The e-TSR application replaces the conventional paper-based Train Signal Register maintained at railway stations with a secure electronic platform. It automatically captures train movement events and time stamps through data logger inputs, reducing manual entries and minimising the possibility of human error. The application is compatible with different signalling systems and also allows manual entries during fallback conditions.
The RBMS provides an end-to-end digital solution for managing railway blocks, covering the complete workflow from request and approval to extension, cancellation and closure. The platform includes role-based access, real-time dashboards, OTP authentication, MIS reporting and geofencing features, enabling more efficient planning and monitoring of engineering, power and signalling blocks. It is also integrated with the e-TSR system to ensure seamless coordination between operational functions.
The third application, DOST, has been developed to enhance the safety of personnel working on or near railway tracks. By combining live train movement data with the GPS location of field staff, the system issues graded audio, visual and vibration alerts whenever an approaching train is detected. It also incorporates multilingual voice alerts, an emergency SOS feature, incident reporting and continuous connectivity monitoring to strengthen on-track safety.
According to R.N. Singh, General Manager, Southern Railway, the applications have been developed around the needs of frontline railway employees, including station masters, controllers, section engineers and track maintenance staff. The initiative is expected to improve safety, support faster decision-making and accelerate Southern Railway’s transition towards a smarter, connected and paperless operating environment.
