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Indian Railways Deploys AI & ML for Real-Time Safety & Smart Monitoring

Indian Railways is deploying advanced Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning systems to enhance safety and operational efficiency. Key initiatives include the TRI-Netra system to assist loco pilots in adverse weather and Wheel Impact Load Detectors for real-time rolling stock health monitoring. AI-based Machine Vision Inspection Systems are being piloted to detect defects in moving trains, while Integrated Track Monitoring Systems inspect track components. Furthermore, a new Rail Tech Policy and portal have been launched to foster innovation and collaboration with startups for scalable tech solutions.

Key Points: AI & ML Boost Indian Railways Safety & Efficiency

  • TRI-Netra AI for foggy weather
  • Real-time wheel & bearing monitoring
  • AI-based defect detection on moving trains
  • New Rail Tech Policy for innovators
2 min read

Indian Railways deploys advanced AI, Machine Learning for enhanced safety and efficiency

Indian Railways deploys AI, TRI-Netra, and smart monitoring systems for real-time safety, track maintenance, and operational efficiency.

"The goal is to leverage technology for better track maintenance planning, improved reliability of assets, and overall operational efficiency. - Indian Railways"

New Delhi, March 12

Indian Railways is actively enhancing its safety and operational efficiency through the deployment of advanced Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning devices and smart monitoring systems.

Key initiatives include the development of the TRI-Netra system by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) to assist loco pilots in foggy and adverse weather conditions, and the installation of 24 Wheel Impact Load Detectors (WILD) systems and 25 Online Monitoring of Rolling Stock (OMRS) systems for real-time monitoring of wheel and bearing health. This system comprises optical cameras, infra-red camera and ranging devices (e.g. Radar/Lidar) & AI to create a real-time, enhanced vision system for assisting Loco pilots.

Machine Vision Inspection Systems (MVIS) and Integrated Track Monitoring Systems (ITMS) are also being utilised on a pilot basis for detecting defects in moving trains and railway tracks, respectively. The goal is to leverage technology for better track maintenance planning, improved reliability of assets, and overall operational efficiency.

MVIS is an Artificial Intelligence (AI)/ Machine Learning (ML) based system which generates alerts on detecting any hanging, loose or missing components of moving trains. Three (03) MVIS have been installed in Northeast Frontier Railway, two (02) in Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL) and one (01) in South East Central Railway on a pilot basis for freight stock. Further, an MoU has been signed between IR and DFCCIL to induct four (04) MVIS over the IR network for freight stock. Also, the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) has taken up the development of MVIS for rolling stock in collaboration with the industry through an Expression of Interest (EoI).

Along with that, 3 Integrated Track Monitoring Systems (ITMS) were deployed for AI-based Inspection and Monitoring of Track Components.

Further, to support the development of cost-effective, implementable and scalable solutions, including those based on AI and data-driven technologies, a new policy called the Rail Tech Policy has been adopted on 26.02.2026 by IR, and a portal (https://railtech.indianrailways.gov.in) has been launched to facilitate participation of innovators and startups.

The proposed Rail Tech Policy incorporates features such as a single-stage detailed submission of proposals by the Innovator. Other than that, Provision for submission of proposals for self-initiated challenges by the Innovator on the Rail Tech Portal and a provision for funding on a 50:50 cost-sharing basis between Indian Railways and the Innovator, with the maximum grant for prototype development and trials.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Finally! Real-time monitoring of wheels and bearings is crucial. We've all heard horror stories of derailments due to technical failures. The WILD and OMRS systems sound very promising. Hope they roll this out across the entire network soon, not just on pilot bases. Safety should be the top priority.
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Vikram M
The Rail Tech Policy portal is a brilliant idea. Engaging startups and innovators is the way to go. India has so much tech talent. A 50:50 cost-sharing model for prototypes is a fair way to encourage innovation. Let's hope the process on the portal is actually smooth and not bogged down by bureaucracy.
S
Sarah B
As a frequent traveler on the Rajdhani, I welcome any tech that improves punctuality and safety. The MVIS for detecting loose parts on moving trains is smart. But my humble request: please also use some AI to clean the coaches and toilets more efficiently! 😅 A clean journey is also part of a safe and pleasant one.
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Rohit P
Good initiatives on paper. Implementation and maintenance are key. We have a history of great tech being installed and then falling into disrepair due to lack of proper upkeep. Hope there's a solid plan for training staff and continuous upgrades. The tech is only as good as the people managing it.
K
Kavya N
This is the kind of modernization we need. The railways are the lifeline of India. Integrating AI and ML for predictive maintenance can prevent so many issues before they happen. Hope the benefits trickle down to the common passenger in the form of fewer cancellations, smoother rides, and timely arrivals. Fingers crossed!

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