New Delhi, March 12 (NationPress) The Indian Railways is actively implementing and testing a variety of cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence-based inspection systems and drone monitoring, to significantly improve safety and efficiency across its extensive network, as reported in Parliament on Thursday.

In a detailed written response in the Lok Sabha, Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that the enhancement of technology within the national transporter is an ongoing initiative, with numerous systems being introduced or evaluated through pilot programs.

He pointed out several advanced systems currently operational within Indian Railways, including the Machine Vision Inspection System (MVIS), the Wheel Impact Load Detector (WILD), the Online Monitoring of Rolling Stock (OMRS), the Integrated Track Monitoring Systems (ITMS), and the Overhead Equipment (OHE).

The MVIS, he explained, is an innovative solution utilizing AI and machine learning to identify hanging, loose, or missing parts in trains while they are in motion.

Currently, three MVIS units have been set up in the Northeast Frontier Railway, two within the Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited, and one in the South East Central Railway on a trial basis focusing on freight stock.

Additionally, Indian Railways has finalized a memorandum of understanding with DFCCIL to deploy four more MVIS units throughout its network for freight rolling stock.

Moreover, the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) is collaborating with industry partners to further develop MVIS technology tailored for rolling stock.

The Wheel Impact Load Detector (WILD) serves to pinpoint defective wheels in rolling stock by analyzing the impact of the wheels on the tracks.

According to the minister, a total of 24 such systems have been integrated throughout the railway network.

In a similar vein, the Online Monitoring of Rolling Stock (OMRS) system is designed to oversee the condition of bearings and wheels, with 25 OMRS systems currently installed, including one located at Sirpur Kaghaznagar in the Secunderabad Division of the South Central Railway.

For inspecting tracks, the ITMS are being utilized to uncover defects in rails, sleepers, and fastenings, employing machine learning and image processing technologies.

Furthermore, the Railways has begun drone-based monitoring of OHE, utilizing thermal imaging technology in a pilot project within the Raipur division.

Additionally, the RDSO is working on the development of TRI-Netra (Terrain Imaging for Locomotive Drivers), a comprehensive system that integrates optical cameras, infrared cameras, and ranging devices like radar or lidar to aid locomotive pilots during fog or adverse weather conditions.

Vaishnaw also shared that the government has introduced a new Rail Tech Policy on February 26, aimed at fostering innovation and accelerating the adoption of emerging technologies.