Railways Steps Up AI, Drone Surveillance To Boost Security

Hyderabad: Indian Railways; It is intensifying the use of technology, including artificial intelligence, drones and CCTV systems, to strengthen security across trains, passengers, stations and the rail network. South Central Railway (SCR) said on Thursday that the measures were implemented in mission mode by strengthening intelligence gathering at the Railway Protection Force (RPF) level.

The update came after a high-level safety review meeting in New Delhi, where railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw consulted field officers across the country. The meeting was chaired by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw from Rail Bhawan.

Authorities noted that initial investigations into several recent incidents, including the fire, indicated that anti-social elements were involved. The Railways said these incidents are being taken seriously and are being investigated by the RPF. In many cases, timely intervention by railway personnel helped prevent disasters.

Strengthening intelligence systems and faster processing of inputs through technology were emphasized at the meeting. Railways has also decided to encourage passengers to support efforts to curb anti-social activities during travel and at stations. Passengers are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or person via railway helpline 139.

Discussions focused on improving field-level reporting systems, expanding CCTV coverage and increasing coordination between the Railway Board and field units. The review also included strengthening cybersecurity, upgrading surveillance equipment and deploying artificial intelligence-based monitoring systems. The meeting also emphasized that information sharing between the RPF and the State Railway Police has been improved to ensure more effective security management across the railway network.