New Delhi: Indian Railways has intensified its nationwide security preparedness by expanding the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), drones, CCTV surveillance, and cyber monitoring systems following recent incidents that raised concerns over railway safety and the role of anti-social elements.
The issue was discussed during a high-level security review meeting chaired by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw at Rail Bhawan in New Delhi. Ministers of State for Railways V. Somanna and Ravneet Singh Bittu, along with senior Railway Board officials and field officers from across the country, attended the meeting, according to an official statement.
During the review, officials noted that preliminary investigations into several recent railway-related incidents, including some fire cases, have pointed towards the involvement of anti-social elements. Railway authorities said the incidents are being treated seriously and investigations by the Railway Protection Force are currently underway.
The ministry stated that in multiple cases, timely intervention and rapid response by railway personnel helped prevent larger mishaps. Officials stressed the need for stronger intelligence collection at the ground level and faster processing of security inputs through technology-based systems.
As part of the enhanced security strategy, Indian Railways is now focusing on expanding AI-enabled surveillance systems, improving camera quality, increasing CCTV coverage, and strengthening cybersecurity infrastructure across the rail network. The review also highlighted the need for better operational coordination between the Railway Board headquarters and field-level railway zones.
The meeting further discussed improving information-sharing mechanisms between the Railway Protection Force and Government Railway Police to ensure quicker response and more effective security management across stations and railway routes.
Railways have also appealed to passengers to remain alert during journeys and at station premises. Authorities have urged travellers to immediately report any suspicious objects, activities, or persons through the railway helpline number 139.
Officials said the security strengthening exercise is being carried out in mission mode as part of a broader effort to safeguard trains, passengers, stations, and critical railway infrastructure across the country.
