Pune, 15 July 2025: In a move aimed at enhancing communication and safety in railway operations, the Pune Railway Division is set to install a new VHF (Very High Frequency) radio communication system across Pune Station and other vital points in the division. This system, comparable to the black box used in aircraft, will record conversations related to train operations among station managers, yard controllers, and other key railway staff.
The advanced system will enable faster and clearer communication between railway personnel and will also ensure that all such interactions are recorded. In case of an accident or any untoward incident, this recorded data will assist investigators in understanding the exact sequence of events. The project, which has been approved by the Railway Board, is expected to cost around ₹5 crore.
The Pune Division had earlier submitted a proposal for this system to the Railway Board, highlighting its importance in train movement and emergency management. With approval now granted, implementation work is expected to begin soon at Pune Station and other significant stations under the division’s jurisdiction.
The existing walkie-talkie sets used by station managers will also be upgraded as part of the system overhaul. The VHF system operates on frequencies ranging from 30 to 300 megahertz, allowing for rapid and high-quality voice transmission. Recordings from the system will be stored for up to three months.
This communication network, based on radio frequency wireless technology, will be especially useful during emergencies such as derailments or major disruptions. It will allow real-time, clear, and secure communication between railway staff equipped with VHF radio sets.
Notably, this is the first time that such communications will be recorded, previously, no such system for voice recording was in place. The system’s radio range is expected to be around 5 to 15 kilometres, and recordings will begin automatically when a train enters the station vicinity.
According to Additional Divisional Railway Manager Padmasingh Jadhav, the Railway Board has recently approved the installation of the new VHF communication system at Pune and other key stations in the region, and the work will begin in the coming days.