Indian Railways is increasingly adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) technologies to improve safety, monitoring and operational efficiency across its vast railway network.
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared the details in the Lok Sabha, stating that several advanced digital systems have been deployed or are currently being tested to strengthen monitoring of trains, railway tracks and overhead infrastructure.
AI-Based Machine Vision System for Train Inspection
One of the key technologies introduced by Indian Railways is the Machine Vision Inspection System (MVIS), which uses AI and ML to detect hanging, loose or missing components in moving trains.
The system has been installed on a pilot basis at:
- Three locations in the Northeast Frontier Railway
- Two locations in the Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited
- One location in the South East Central Railway for freight trains
A memorandum of understanding has also been signed between Indian Railways and DFCCIL to install four additional MVIS systems across the railway network.
Wheel and Rolling Stock Monitoring Systems
To detect equipment faults and prevent accidents, Indian Railways has installed 24 Wheel Impact Load Detector (WILD) systems, which identify defective wheels by measuring the impact of train wheels on tracks.
Additionally, 25 Online Monitoring of Rolling Stock (OMRS) systems are currently operational. These systems monitor the health of bearings and wheels of trains in real time, helping railway authorities detect issues early and prevent potential failures.
AI-Powered Track Monitoring Technology
For improved track safety, Indian Railways has deployed three Integrated Track Monitoring Systems (ITMS).
These systems use machine learning and image processing technologies to detect defects in track components such as:
- Rails
- Sleepers
- Fastenings
The data generated by these systems helps authorities plan urgent repairs and scheduled maintenance, improving both reliability and operational efficiency.
Drone-Based Monitoring of Railway Infrastructure
Indian Railways is also testing drone-based thermal monitoring of overhead electrical equipment in the Raipur Division.
The system uses thermal imaging technology to identify potential issues in electrical infrastructure.
In collaboration with Indian Institute of Technology Madras, the railways is also developing an AI-enabled drone-based aerial inspection system to analyse captured data and support predictive maintenance.
TRI-Netra System to Assist Train Drivers
Another technology under development is TRI-Netra (Terrain Imaging for Locomotive Drivers – Infra-Red, Enhanced Optical and Ranging Device Assisted).
Developed by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation, the system will assist loco pilots by improving visibility during fog, rain and other adverse weather conditions.
The system uses optical cameras, infrared sensors and radar or lidar-based ranging devices to help drivers detect obstacles and track conditions more effectively.
Rail Tech Policy to Promote Innovation
To further promote technological innovation, Indian Railways has introduced the Rail Tech Policy, approved on February 26, 2026, along with a dedicated Rail Tech Portal.
The policy aims to encourage scalable and cost-effective solutions, particularly those based on AI and data-driven technologies.
Under the policy:
- Innovators and startups can submit technology proposals through the portal
- Self-initiated solutions are also encouraged
- Prototype development and trials will be supported through 50:50 cost sharing between Indian Railways and innovators
- Successful solutions will receive support for extended testing and large-scale deployment
Officials said the initiative will help accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies, further strengthening safety, efficiency and reliability across the Indian Railways network.
