Indian Railways Expands AI Surveillance and Real-Time Passenger Information Systems
Indian Railways is strengthening its digital and telecommunications infrastructure to improve passenger safety, operational efficiency and access to travel information. According to the Ministry of Railways, the network has expanded artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled surveillance, automated passenger information systems and high-capacity communications infrastructure across stations nationwide. These initiatives, implemented during 2025–26, form part of a broader effort to modernise railway services and support a more connected and responsive transport system.
The measures focus on integrating advanced digital technologies into day-to-day railway operations, ranging from real-time passenger announcements to improved communications in challenging environments such as railway tunnels.
Integrated Telecommunications Infrastructure for Railway Operations
A key component of the modernisation programme is the expansion of an integrated telecommunications network using Internet Protocol Multi-Protocol Label Switching (IP-MPLS) technology. This high-capacity system is designed to support the growing bandwidth requirements of mission-critical railway applications.
The network enables centralised access to video surveillance and supports multiple operational systems, including Mobile Train Radio Communication (MTRC), Passenger Reservation System (PRS), Unreserved Ticketing System (UTS), Freight Operations Information System (FOIS), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and video conferencing services.
IP-MPLS infrastructure has been commissioned at 1,396 railway stations so far, creating a digitally integrated environment that supports both operational management and passenger-facing services. The development reflects wider national investments in digital infrastructure and emerging technologies, as discussed in India’s budget initiatives supporting AI, semiconductors and IT development.
AI-Enabled Surveillance Strengthens Passenger Safety
Indian Railways has also expanded its Video Surveillance System (VSS) to 1,874 stations. The system incorporates AI-based video analytics capable of automatically identifying suspicious behaviour, including intrusion and loitering within station premises.
The surveillance network includes facial recognition software that allows real-time monitoring and identification, supporting faster response to potential security incidents. Similar applications of AI across public infrastructure are increasingly being adopted across sectors, including projects where AI and geospatial visualisation technologies are improving dam safety monitoring.
“Cameras will be the eyes of the system and AI will be its brain.” — Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of Railways, Government of India
The minister previously highlighted the role of AI technologies in strengthening railway security and supporting more proactive monitoring of large and complex station environments.
Real-Time Passenger Information and Automated Announcements
Passenger information services have also been upgraded through the expansion of the Integrated Passenger Information System (IPAS). The system combines electronic train indicator boards, coach guidance displays and public address systems to deliver timely travel information to passengers.
IPAS has been integrated with the National Train Enquiry System (NTES), enabling automated real-time announcements regarding train arrivals, departures and platform details. The integrated system is now operational at 1,405 railway stations.
These developments build on a broader national push to use digital technologies to improve the passenger journey, an approach also explored in India’s initiatives applying AI and advanced technologies to transform rail travel.
Communication Systems for Rail Tunnels and Remote Terrain
To improve safety and operational coordination in complex terrain, tunnel communication systems are being deployed across several railway zones. These systems enable uninterrupted radio communication between personnel working inside tunnels and railway headquarters or operational control centres.
Such capabilities are particularly relevant for projects such as the strategically important Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), where railway lines pass through mountainous terrain and long tunnels.
Towards a Digitally Enabled Railway Network
Collectively, these initiatives reflect Indian Railways’ continued investment in advanced technologies to build a safer and more efficient transport network. By expanding telecommunications infrastructure, deploying AI-enabled monitoring systems and improving passenger information services, the railway system aims to deliver more reliable services while aligning with the wider goals of India’s digital transformation agenda.
