Indian Railways Expands AI System to Prevent Elephant-Train Collisions

Kokila Chokkanathan
New Delhi: indian Railways is stepping up its efforts to protect wildlife and enhance train safety by expanding the use of artificial intelligence (AI). The railways plan to roll out an AI-based Intrusion Detection System (IDS) on major ghat sections, including critical routes managed by Central Railway, where the risk of elephant-train collisions is high.

How the AI-Based Intrusion Detection System Works

The AI-IDS is designed to detect the presence of elephants and other large animals near railway tracks in real time. Key features include:

  • High-resolution cameras and sensors installed along railway tracks in wildlife-prone areas
  • Machine learning algorithms that can differentiate elephants from other objects
  • Real-time alerts to train drivers via a mobile or onboard notification system
  • Automated speed reduction signals in critical sections to prevent accidents
This system aims to minimize human error, which has historically contributed to collisions with wildlife in forested and ghat regions.

Focus on High-Risk Sections

Certain railway sections, particularly in Central India, Northeast, and Western Ghats, are known for frequent wildlife crossings, including elephants. Collisions in these areas not only threaten the survival of endangered species but also pose significant safety risks for trains and passengers.

By deploying AI-IDS on these routes, indian Railways expects to significantly reduce accidents, ensuring safer travel for both wildlife and humans.

Integration with Existing Railway Systems

The AI-IDS is being integrated with existing train control and signaling systems, enabling seamless alerts and interventions. Officials stated that the system will complement:

  • Wildlife corridors and underpasses, allowing safe animal passage
  • Fog and low-visibility warning systems in ghat sections
  • GPS tracking of trains for precise location monitoring near high-risk zones
This multi-layered approach is part of a broader effort to make rail travel eco-friendly and wildlife-conscious.

Environmental and Safety Benefits

  • Wildlife conservation: Reduces elephant fatalities and protects other species
  • Passenger safety: Decreases risk of derailments and accidents in forested areas
  • Operational efficiency: Prevents emergency halts and delays caused by collisions
Railway officials have emphadata-sized that AI is now a key tool in creating smart, sustainable railway corridors that respect both human and animal safety.

Looking Ahead

Indian Railways plans to expand the AI-IDS system to other wildlife-sensitive regions across the country. Training programs are also being conducted for train drivers and local railway staff to efficiently respond to AI-generated alerts.

This initiative reflects India’s growing focus on leveraging technology for ecological protection, ensuring that modern transportation coexists harmoniously with wildlife.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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