Colombia is undergoing a transformation in its railway system, driven by a new vision of sustainable, safe, and efficient mobility. Railway signalling is key to ensuring the safety of projects and is being modernized in parallel with major infrastructure developments.
Regulatory Framework: Towards an Integrated Railway System
The country is moving forward with the National Railway Law, which regulates freight and passenger rail transport. This law establishes technical standards, promotes interoperability between transport modes, and mandates modern, safe signalling systems to ensure the safety of people, trains, and assets. It also provides an operational framework for current and future projects.
Signalling Technology:
The Medellín Metro initially implemented relay-based signalling (IXL), LZB, ZUS, FTGS detection systems, ATC with automation level 2, and lateral signalling on its heavy rail lines A and B. These systems are currently being upgraded to a SIL4 signalling system to improve response times and system flexibility.
The Ayacucho tram project implemented a signalling system with continuous detection, IXL, ATP, ASFA, and lateral signalling. This system enables speed supervision and signal overrun protection, and it features a complex interface with pedestrian and road crossings along the route.
The Metro de la 80 (light rail) project is currently in the design phase. It plans to implement a signalling system with continuous detection, IXL, ATP, ASFA, and lateral signalling, allowing for speed supervision and signal overrun protection. The system will interface with pedestrian and road crossings along the route.
Bogotá Metro
The First Line of the Bogotá Metro (PLMB) will implement a CBTC (UTO) signalling system with a Grade of Automation (GoA) 4. This allows for shorter distances between trains and higher passenger capacity per hour per direction. Track detection systems and lateral signalling are considered for degraded operation scenarios. The system is expected to be operational by 2028.
Currently, Bogotá is planning the implementation of lines 2 and 3, which are expected to be equipped with at least a CBTC (UTO) signalling system with GoA 4 automation.
Regiotram de Occidente: This light rail project is in the design phase and plans to implement a signalling system with continuous detection to supervise and control speed curves, along with lateral signalling to ensure route protection and provide information to the driver.

Freight Trains: Reactivation of Strategic Corridors
Colombia has more than 1,000 km of active railway lines, with key corridors such as:
-Chiriguaná–Santa Marta: Coal transport to the Caribbean.
-La Dorada–Chiriguaná: Mixed freight and passenger transport.
– Bogotá–Belencito: Steel, cement, and tourist services.
In summary, Colombia is at the forefront of state-of-the-art railway signalling systems in all its current and future rail projects, ensuring safety (for passengers, assets, etc.) and operational efficiency.