Indian Railways deploys AI and ML systems to improve safety and efficiency
New Delhi: Indian Railways has deployed advanced monitoring technologies as part of its Indian Railways AI systems initiative to improve train safety and operational efficiency.
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said technological upgrades remain a continuous process across the railway network.
The Indian Railways AI systems programme uses artificial intelligence and machine learning tools to monitor trains, tracks and railway infrastructure in real time.
These technologies help detect faults early, improve maintenance planning and strengthen operational safety.
AI monitoring technologies deployed across the network
The Machine Vision Inspection System uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to detect loose, hanging or missing components in moving trains.
Three systems operate in the Northeast Frontier Railway, two in the Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited and one in the South East Central Railway on a pilot basis.
Indian Railways has also installed 24 Wheel Impact Load Detector systems that identify defective wheels by measuring the impact of wheels on tracks.
In addition, 25 Online Monitoring of Rolling Stock systems track the health of train wheels and bearings in real time.
One such monitoring system operates at Sirpur Kaghaznagar in the Secunderabad division.
Three Integrated Track Monitoring Systems inspect railway tracks using machine learning and image-processing technologies.
These systems detect defects in rails, sleepers and fastenings and help engineers plan timely maintenance.
Drone monitoring and TRI-Netra vision system
Railways has also launched drone-based thermal monitoring of overhead equipment in the Raipur division.
The system uses thermal imaging to detect faults in electric traction infrastructure.
Indian Railways is also developing an AI-enabled aerial inspection system in collaboration with Indian Institute of Technology Madras.
Another key technology is the TRI-Netra system developed by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation.
This system assists loco pilots during foggy or adverse weather conditions.
TRI-Netra combines optical cameras, infrared sensors and radar or lidar to create a real-time enhanced vision system.
Rail Tech Policy to promote innovation
Indian Railways has also launched a new Rail Tech Policy to encourage technology innovation and faster adoption of modern systems.
The policy allows innovators and startups to submit proposals through the Rail Tech portal.
It also offers funding support for prototype development and trials through a cost-sharing model.
Officials said the initiative will accelerate the deployment of scalable technologies across the railway network.
