Railways unveils VSAT hub system

New Delhi, Apr 30 (UNI) In an attempt to improve communication facilities across the network, Indian Railways today launched a state-of-the-art satellite based VSAT hub system .

''This system will herald a new era of communication activity providing vast number of voice, data and video applications starting from accident sites, issue of railway ticket from remote places, data connectivity to remote locations of Freight Operating Information System (FOIS),'' Railway Board Chairman K C Jena told reporters after inaugurating the system here.

VSAT network has been commissioned by leading US-based satellite technology solution provider Hughes Netowrk.

Prior to this, Indian Railways was using hired hub services which was catering to only 200 terminals.

''With the commissioning of its own VSAT hub, the Railways is in a position to connect about 1,000 remote locations,'' he said.

This new system will help Railways to have voice and data connectivity for their services at remotely located stations where fixed and mobile network of telecom operators had not reached even after a massive revolution in telecom industry in recent times.

With the launch of Railways' own VSAT network, the Railways also plans to provide internet in running trains.

Railways also plans to use this system for online reservation in running trains, train operation and maintenance activities.

''The VSAT terminals will be quick tracking type and will help in establishing communication at accident sites within 15-20 minutes,'' Mr Jena said.

UNI MP SBA BST1850