What is the role of interlocking in railway operations?

The role of interlocking in railway operations is primarily to permit safe changing of tracks for trains and equipment. Interlocking systems are crucial for managing the movement of trains through junctions and crossings safely. They ensure that signals and switches are aligned correctly before a train can proceed, thus preventing conflicting movements that could lead to accidents. This system enhances safety by controlling the flow of train traffic and ensuring that any track changes are made only when it is safe to do so. This necessity for safety is a key reason why interlocking is an integral component of railway signal systems.