Indian Railways is improving safety and operational efficiency through the use of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies and smart monitoring systems.
Key efforts include the TRI-Netra system developed by the Research Design Standards Organization (RDSO). This system assists locomotive pilots in fog and bad weather. In addition, 24 Wheel Impact Load Detectors (WILD) and 25 Rolling Stock Online Monitoring (OMRS) systems have been installed to monitor the condition of wheels and bearings in real time.
These systems combine optical cameras, infrared cameras, ranging devices such as radar and lidar, and AI to create an enhanced vision system that supports locomotive pilots in service.
Machine vision inspection systems (MVIS) and integrated track monitoring systems (ITMS) are being piloted to detect defects in moving trains and tracks, respectively. The objective is to use technology to improve track maintenance planning, increase asset reliability and increase operational efficiency.
MVIS is an AI/ML-based system that generates alerts when components are dangling, loose, or missing on a moving train. Three MVIS units were installed on Northeast Frontier Railway, two on Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL) and one on South East Central Railway for cargo stocking on a trial basis. An MoU has been signed between Indian Railways and DFCCIL to introduce four additional MVIS units across the Indian Railways network for cargo inventory. Additionally, RDSO is working with industry to develop MVIS for rail vehicles following an Expression of Interest (EoI).
Three ITMS units were deployed for AI-based inspection and monitoring of track components.
To facilitate the development of cost-effective and scalable AI and data-driven technologies, Indian Railways adopted a new Railway Technology Policy on February 26, 2026. A dedicated portal (https://railtech.indianrailways.gov.in) has been launched to foster innovation and startup participation.
The Railway Technology Policy features a one-step detailed proposal submission process by innovators, provision for voluntary challenge proposals on the Railway Technology Portal, funding options with 50:50 cost sharing between Indian Railways and innovators, and maximum subsidy available for prototype development and testing.
