Ani |
Update date: March 12, 2026 21:56 IST
new delhi [India]March 12 (ANI): Indian Railways is aggressively enhancing safety and operational efficiency through the introduction of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) devices and smart monitoring systems.
Key efforts include the development of the TRI-Netra system by the Research Design Standards Organization (RDSO) to assist locomotive pilots in fog and adverse weather conditions, and the installation of 24 Wheel Impact Load Detector (WILD) systems and 25 Rolling Stock Online Monitoring (OMRS) systems for real-time monitoring of wheel and bearing conditions. The system consists of optical cameras, infrared cameras, ranging devices (e.g. radar/lidar) and AI to create a real-time enhanced vision system to assist loco pilots.
Machine vision inspection systems (MVIS) and integrated track monitoring systems (ITMS) are also being trialled to detect defects in moving trains and tracks, respectively. The goal is to leverage technology to improve track maintenance planning, improve asset reliability, and increase overall operational efficiency.
MVIS is an artificial intelligence (AI)/machine learning (ML)-based system that generates alerts when it detects hanging, loose, or missing components of a moving train. Three MVIS have been installed on North East Frontier Railway, two (02) on Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL) and one (01) on South East Central Railway for freight stock on a trial basis. Additionally, a memorandum of understanding was signed between IR and DFCCIL for deployment of four MVIS on IR network for cargo inventory. The Research, Design and Standards Organization (RDSO) is also working with industry through an Expression of Interest (EoI) to develop MVIS for rail vehicles.
Along with this, three Integrated Track Monitoring Systems (ITMS) were introduced for AI-based inspection and monitoring of track components.
Additionally, to support the development of cost-effective, implementable and scalable solutions, including those based on AI and data-driven technologies, a new policy called Railway Technology Policy was adopted by the IR on February 26, 2026, and a portal (https://railtech.indianrailways.gov.in) was launched to facilitate the participation of innovators and startups.
The proposed rail technology policy incorporates features such as single-stage detailed proposal submission by innovators; Other provisions include provisions for submission of voluntary challenge proposals by innovators on the Railway Technology Portal and funding provisions for maximum subsidy for prototype development and testing on a 50:50 cost-sharing basis between Indian Railways and innovators. (Ani)
