Indian Railways has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL) to deploy Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) powered inspection systems across its rolling stock. The agreement marks a major leap towards predictive maintenance and automation in India’s railway operations.
Under the MoU, DFCCIL will lead the procurement and commissioning of four advanced Machine Vision-Based Inspection Systems (MVIS). These units are designed to monitor the health of trains in real time by capturing high-resolution images of undercarriage components. The AI-enabled system detects loose, hanging, or missing parts and triggers instant alerts for swift remedial action. Officials noted that this predictive technology will significantly enhance operational safety, reduce manual inspection dependency, and minimise the risk of in-service faults that could lead to derailments or delays. Railway experts involved in the initiative said that embracing intelligent inspection frameworks is part of a broader strategy to integrate automation into India’s railways—aligning with global benchmarks in transport safety and asset management.
By leveraging machine learning algorithms, MVIS units can continuously improve their detection accuracy, offering a sustainable, cost-effective approach to maintaining large fleets across high-frequency corridors. DFCCIL will oversee the end-to-end installation, testing, and commissioning of the four MVIS units, which are expected to be installed at key points of high train density. This aligns with Indian Railways’ larger goal of ensuring zero fatality operations while enhancing the reliability and punctuality of train services, especially along high-demand freight and passenger routes. Officials from the Ministry of Railways emphasised that this AI-powered upgrade reflects the sector’s shift towards data-driven decision-making and real-time infrastructure intelligence. As India expands its rail network, especially with mega freight and semi-high-speed projects, such technological innovations are viewed as essential to building a safe, smart, and future-ready railway system.
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