New Delhi, March 12: Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw informed Parliament that Indian Railways is implementing artificial intelligence-based inspection systems, drone surveillance, and various new technologies to enhance safety and operations across its network.
In a written response in the Lok Sabha, the minister stated that technological improvements in the railway sector are an ongoing process, with several new systems being launched or tested as pilot projects.
He highlighted the introduction of systems such as the Machine Vision Inspection System (MVIS), Wheel Impact Load Detectors (WILD), Online Monitoring of Rolling Stock (OMRS), Integrated Track Monitoring Systems (ITMS), and Overhead Equipment (OHE).
According to the minister, MVIS is an AI and machine learning-based system that helps detect loose, hanging, or missing parts on moving trains. Three units of this system have been installed as pilot projects in the Northeast Frontier Railway, two in the Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited, and one in the South East Central Railway. Additionally, an agreement has been made with DFCCIL to install four more MVIS units for freight trains.
The Research Design and Standards Organization (RDSO) is also collaborating with industries to further develop this technology. The Wheel Impact Load Detector system measures the impact of wheels on tracks to identify defective wheels, with 24 such systems already deployed across the railway network.
Meanwhile, the OMRS system monitors the condition of train bearings and wheels, with 25 units installed so far, including one in the Secunderabad division under South Central Railway. The ITMS system is used to inspect railway tracks, utilizing machine learning and image processing to detect faults in rails, sleepers, and fastenings.
Furthermore, a pilot project in the Raipur division has initiated thermal imaging surveillance of overhead equipment using drones. RDSO is also developing a system called Tri-Netra, which will incorporate optical cameras, infrared cameras, and radar or lidar to assist locomotive pilots in operating trains during fog or adverse weather conditions.
The minister also announced that the government implemented a new Rail Tech Policy on February 26, aimed at accelerating the adoption of new technologies and innovations within the railway sector.
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