Fundamentals of European rail traffic management system (ERTMS)

The advent of new high-speed lines in Europe and the development of the freight network create a demand for increasing cross border traffic. In addition, some railways anticipate a significant increase in the density of train traffic and are rethinking their infrastructure strategy to accommodate high levels of traffic in which ATC/ATP systems play an important part. Also, many railways would like to introduce a standardised system to reduce whole life costs. In order to establish international standardisation of ATC /ATP systems, the European Rail Traffic Management System/European Train Control System (ERTMS/ETCS) has been developed.