Indian Railways Deploys AI-Based Systems to Prevent Wildlife Collisions on Tracks

AI-Driven Safety Measures for Wildlife Protection

Indian Railways has enhanced its Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based safety framework to protect wildlife in forested and ecologically sensitive railway corridors. The initiative focuses on reducing train collisions involving elephants, lions and tigers , integrating advanced technology with wildlife conservation and railway safety.

AI-Based Alerts for Train Operations

AI-enabled cameras have been installed along vulnerable railway sections to detect the presence of large animals near tracks. When wildlife is detected, the system provides advance alerts to loco pilots nearly 500 metres ahead , enabling them to slow down or stop trains in time. This proactive warning mechanism significantly reduces the risk of accidents while ensuring safer train operations in biodiversity-rich regions.

Intrusion Detection Through Acoustic Technology

A critical element of the initiative is the AI-enabled Intrusion Detection System based on a Distributed Acoustic System (DAS) . This technology identifies vibrations and movement patterns associated with elephants approaching railway tracks. The system has already been implemented successfully across 141 route kilometres under the Northeast Frontier Railway , an area historically prone to frequent elephant movement and wildlife-related train accidents.

Network Expansion and Real-Time Coordination

Based on encouraging results, Indian Railways has sanctioned further expansion of the system. Additional tenders have been awarded to extend coverage by 981 route kilometres , taking the total AI-protected network to 1,122 route kilometres . The system generates real-time alerts for loco pilots, station masters and control rooms, enabling coordinated and timely preventive action to avoid wildlife casualties.

Sustainable Infrastructure Development

This initiative reflects Indian Railways’ commitment to balancing infrastructure growth with environmental responsibility . By leveraging AI, real-time monitoring and acoustic sensing, the Railways aims to protect endangered wildlife, reduce human-animal conflict and promote sustainable rail operations in forest and wildlife corridor regions.

Important Facts for Exams

• Indian Railways uses AI-based systems to prevent wildlife-train collisions

• Distributed Acoustic System detects elephant movement near tracks

• System operational on Northeast Frontier Railway routes

• Total planned coverage: 1,122 route kilometres