Railways using AI, drones, CCTVs to enhance safety of trains and passengers: Ashwini Vaishnaw
New Delhi, May 21
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday said Indian Railways is using the latest technology tools like AI, drones and CCTVs intensively to enhance the safety of trains, passengers, station premises and the vast rail network.
This is being undertaken in a mission mode by strengthening the intelligence gathering mechanism at the beat level of the Railway Protection Force (RPF), said the minister during a high-level security review meeting held here.
The Railways Ministry carried out extensive consultations with field officers from across the country in the presence of senior officials in the national capital.
The meeting focused on strengthening coordination by improving information-sharing mechanisms between RPF and Government Railway Police for more effective security management across the railway network.
It was noted during the meeting that in the last few days, the involvement of anti-social elements has emerged during the initial probe into multiple incidents, including some recent fire incidents.
Indian Railways has taken these incidents seriously and the RPF is actively probing them.
In several cases, prompt and proactive action by Railways helped avert major eventualities, according to an official statement.
It was also felt that, besides strengthening intelligence systems and the use of technology to process inputs faster, Railways will further encourage passengers to actively support efforts in containing anti-social activities during their journey and while waiting at station premises.
The ministry urged passengers to remain alert and vigilant while travelling. Any suspicious activity or suspicious person noticed on railway premises should be immediately reported on the Railway helpline number 139.
Emphasis was also laid on enhancing technology-driven security systems, expanding CCTV coverage across the railway network, and improving operational security coordination between Railway Board headquarters and field zones.
The meeting also highlighted strengthening cyber security, upgrading camera specifications, and deploying AI-based surveillance and monitoring systems.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As someone who travels regularly by train, I've noticed a definite improvement in recent years. More CCTVs at stations and the helpline 139 actually works - I reported a suspicious package once and got a quick response. Still, we need better lighting on platforms and in parking lots. Safety should be 24/7 not just during peak hours.
Finally some real action! The fact that they're involving RPF and GRP together is important - coordination between these two has always been a weak point. I hope the AI systems can detect unattended bags and unusual movements. But please also focus on women's safety coaches, especially in overnight trains. 🙏
I appreciate the tech push but let's be real - AI and drones are good but what about basic maintenance? Broken CCTV cameras are common at many stations I've been to. Also, passengers like me are hesitant to report because sometimes we get ignored or the response is too slow. Need better public awareness and trust-building with RPF. 🤔
My father retired from RPF last year and he often said technology alone can't solve everything - you need well-trained personnel and community partnership. This AI and drone initiative sounds promising but I hope they also invest in training the staff to handle incidents effectively. Also, helpline 139 awareness needs to be spread more in rural stations.
I've traveled on Indian Railways for over 20 years and this is the most serious I've seen the ministry about security. The mention of cyber security is crucial too - with more digital systems, hacking risks increase. Let's hope they follow global best practices
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