What is the primary purpose of an interlocking system?

The primary purpose of an interlocking system is to ensure safe, sequential movement of trains. An interlocking system is a crucial component of railway signaling that controls the train movements at junctions and crossings to prevent collisions and ensure that trains operate safely and efficiently within the railway network. It achieves this by coordinating signals and track switches, allowing only one train to occupy a particular section of track at a time or ensuring that conflicting movements do not occur simultaneously.

By doing so, the system enhances safety by automating the process of train routing and preventing human error, which is especially important in busy rail networks where multiple trains are operating at the same time. While other options may relate to aspects of rail operations, they do not capture the fundamental goal of interlocking systems, which is centered around safety and movement coordination.