South Central Railway Goes High-Tech with AI, Drones & CCTV for Rail Security
HYDERABAD: Indian Railways is intensifying the use of technology, including artificial intelligence (AI), drones and CCTV systems, to strengthen safety across trains, stations and the railway network, the South Central Railway (SCR) said on Thursday.
The measures are being implemented in mission mode by reinforcing intelligence gathering at the beat level of the Railway Protection Force (RPF), officials said.
The update followed a high-level security review meeting held at Rail Bhawan in New Delhi. Union railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw chaired the meeting and consulted field officers from across the country.
Railways reviews recent security incidents
Officials said initial probes into multiple recent incidents, including fire-related cases, indicated the involvement of anti-social elements. The Railways said the incidents were being treated seriously and were under investigation by the RPF.
In several cases, timely intervention by railway personnel helped avert disasters, officials added.
The meeting focused on strengthening intelligence systems and speeding up the processing of inputs through technology. Railways also decided to encourage passengers to support efforts to curb anti-social activities during travel and at stations.
Passengers have been advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity or individuals through railway helpline number 139.
Focus on cyber security and AI-based monitoring
Discussions during the review centred on improving field-level reporting systems, expanding CCTV coverage and enhancing coordination between the Railway Board and field units.
The review also covered strengthening cyber security, upgrading surveillance equipment and deploying AI-based monitoring systems across the railway network.
Officials further stressed improved information-sharing between the RPF and the Government Railway Police to ensure more effective security management.
