The Indian Railways plans to install 7.5 million AI-powered CCTV cameras in coaches and locomotives at a cost of Rs 15,000 crores to improve safety. These cameras will use artificial intelligence to detect suspicious objects on tracks and alert drivers to apply emergency brakes.
Indian Railways to Invest ₹15,000 Crore
To enhance safety across the rail network, Indian Railways has decided to install 7.5 million AI-enabled CCTV cameras in:
- 40,000 coaches
- 14,000 locomotives
- 6,000 EMUs
The estimated cost for this project is Rs 15,000 crores, and a tender is expected to be released in October.
Technology Integration
In addition to AI-based CCTV cameras, the Railways is considering using Lidar technology to improve safety systems on locomotives.
Derailment Prevention
In response to recent derailments, top railway officials, including the Railway Minister, are exploring strategies to prevent such accidents. Meetings are being held to finalize the range of CCTV cameras for AI-equipped locomotives, and contracts with multiple vendors will be awarded within 12 months.
Current Surveillance Systems
While major railway stations are already equipped with high-resolution CCTV cameras, the latest initiative will extend surveillance to all rolling stock except wagons, which are currently being fitted with RFID systems to monitor movement.
Safety Enhancements
The new AI-powered cameras will significantly improve safety measures across the Indian Railways network. Each coach will be equipped with six cameras, strategically placed to cover all angles and ensure comprehensive surveillance. Locomotives will have four cameras, positioned to monitor the tracks ahead and the surroundings.
- Detection Capabilities: The cameras will be capable of detecting objects from a considerable distance, providing ample time for the AI system to analyze the images.
- AI Processing: The AI will process the images in real-time to determine whether the detected objects are foreign objects, animals, or humans. This rapid processing will enable timely alerts to be sent to the driver.
- Alert System: Upon detecting a potential hazard, the AI system will send an immediate alert to the driver, allowing them to take necessary actions, such as applying emergency brakes or reducing speed.
- Night Vision: The cameras will be equipped with night vision capabilities to ensure effective monitoring even in low-light conditions.
- Data Storage: The system will store video footage for a specified period, enabling post-incident analysis and investigations.
Challenges and Future Developments
Railways officials are exploring linking AI cameras directly to emergency braking systems. This integration would allow the AI system to automatically apply brakes in case of imminent danger, further enhancing safety.
- Technical Challenges: Integrating AI cameras with emergency braking systems poses technical challenges, such as ensuring seamless communication between the AI system and the braking mechanism.
- Testing and Validation: Extensive testing and validation will be required to ensure the AI system’s reliability and accuracy in real-world scenarios.
- Vendor Collaboration: To develop and implement the integrated system, collaboration with multiple vendors will be necessary. Contracts with vendors are expected to be awarded within 12 months.
- Training and Maintenance: Training railway staff to operate and maintain the new system will be crucial for its successful implementation.
Incidents and Legal Actions
Recent sabotage attempts, including the deliberate placement of objects on tracks, have raised alarms and highlighted the need for enhanced safety measures.
- Sabarmati Express Incident: The derailment of the Sabarmati Express due to sabotage has prompted the Uttar Pradesh Police to file an FIR. Investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend the culprits.
- Other Incidents: Similar incidents in Jabalpur and Kanpur are also under investigation. These incidents underscore the importance of implementing advanced safety technologies to prevent future accidents.
- Legal Actions: Authorities are taking stringent legal actions against those involved in sabotage attempts. Increased surveillance and monitoring will aid in the early detection and prevention of such malicious activities.
Conclusion
These incidents are a serious concern for the Railways, and authorities are actively exploring technological solutions to prevent future accidents.
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