DELHI (Metro Rail News): Indian Railways has commenced deployment of advanced Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning technologies across its vast network to substantially enhance safety protocols and operational efficiency through comprehensive smart monitoring systems.
Key technologies include the TRI-Netra enhanced vision system for locomotive pilots, Machine Vision Inspection Systems detecting defects in moving trains, Integrated Track Monitoring Systems for comprehensive track inspection, Wheel Impact Load Detectors and Online Monitoring of Rolling Stock for real-time health monitoring, and drone-based thermal monitoring of overhead equipment.
Supporting this technological transformation, Railway Minister, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw launched Rail Tech Policy on February 26, 2026, launching a dedicated portal to facilitate startup participation and innovation in railway technologies.
TRI-Netra Enhanced Vision System
The Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) is developing TRI-Netra (Terrain Imaging for Locomotive Drivers – Infra-Red, Enhanced Optical and Ranging Device Assisted), an advanced vision system designed to assist locomotive pilots during low-visibility conditions including fog, heavy rain, and adverse weather. The technology addresses a longstanding operational challenge in Indian Railways where visibility restrictions force speed reductions or service suspensions during monsoon and winter fog seasons.
The integrated system creates an enhanced vision display for locomotive pilots combining information from multiple sensors, enabling detection of signals, track features, obstacles, and other trains even in conditions where human vision is severely restricted.
Machine Vision Inspection System (MVIS)
Machine Vision Inspection System employs Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to automatically detect hanging, loose, or missing components on moving trains which is a critical safety function addressing defects that could lead to component failures, track obstructions, or accidents.
Current Deployment Status:
- Three (3) MVIS units installed in Northeast Frontier Railway
- Two (2) units in Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL)
- One (1) unit in South East Central Railway
Wheel Impact Load Detector (WILD) and Online Monitoring of Rolling Stock (OMRS)
Indian Railways has installed 24 Wheel Impact Load Detector (WILD) systems across its network for real-time wheel health monitoring. WILD technology measures impact forces as train wheels pass over instrumented track sections
Complementing WILD systems, 25 Online Monitoring of Rolling Stock (OMRS) systems provide wayside inspection of bearing and wheel health through thermal imaging and vibration analysis.
Integrated Track Monitoring System (ITMS)
Three Integrated Track Monitoring Systems (ITMS) have been deployed for comprehensive AI-based inspection and monitoring of track components. ITMS utilizes machine learning and advanced image processing to detect defects in railway track infrastructure including rails, sleepers, and fastening systems.
Drone-Based Thermal Monitoring of Overhead Equipment
Indian Railways has initiated pilot testing of drone-based thermal monitoring for Overhead Equipment (OHE) inspection in Raipur Division. The project employs unmanned aerial vehicles equipped with thermal imaging cameras to detect overheating conditions in overhead catenary systems, pantograph contact surfaces, and electrical connections conditions indicating deterioration, poor contact, or impending failures.
Rail Tech Policy and Innovation Portal
Indian Railways adopted the Rail Tech Policy on February 26, 2026, establishing a comprehensive framework to accelerate development and deployment of cost-effective, implementable, and scalable solutions including AI and data-driven technologies.
Key Policy Features:
- Single-stage detailed proposal submission process reducing bureaucratic complexity
- Provision for self-initiated challenge proposals allowing innovators to identify and address railway problems proactively
- 50:50 cost-sharing funding model between Indian Railways and innovators for prototype development and trials
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