Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw Reviews Rail Security; AI Cameras, QR Entry System to Transform New Delhi Railway Station
Railways to Introduce AI Surveillance, Smart Entry Systems and Staff Identification Overhaul at New Delhi Station
The Impressive TimesNew Delhi, March 20: In a major push to modernise passenger safety and streamline operations, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Friday conducted a high-level review of facilities, security systems, and crowd management strategies across railway stations, with a special focus on the national capital’s busiest hub.
During the meeting held at Rail Bhawan, officials were instructed to fast-track a series of technology-driven and infrastructure upgrades aimed at improving commuter experience. The reforms will be piloted at New Delhi Railway Station before being expanded nationwide.
A comprehensive surveillance framework powered by artificial intelligence is set to be deployed across the station. The system will include advanced cameras covering platforms, entry and exit gates, concourses, and other sensitive zones.
A central control room equipped with real-time analytics will monitor activities and flag unusual movements or security threats instantly. Authorities emphasised that proper lighting across all monitored areas will be ensured to maximise the efficiency of this system. The Railway Protection Force will also enhance monitoring to restrict entry strictly to valid ticket holders.
To ensure better accountability and easy identification, a new colour-coded uniform policy will be implemented for all personnel working within station premises. Railway staff, vendors, helpers, and contractual workers will wear distinct fluorescent jackets based on their roles.
Additionally, mandatory identification cards carrying detailed credentials will be issued to everyone operating inside the station. This move is expected to help both passengers and security personnel quickly distinguish between authorised staff and outsiders.
In preparation for high passenger volumes during festivals like Diwali and Chhath, a QR code-enabled access system will be introduced on a pilot basis at the station. This system will regulate entry by validating tickets digitally and categorising passengers based on travel type, such as reserved, unreserved, or season pass holders.
Officials believe this will significantly reduce congestion and improve passenger flow management.
To enhance door-to-door travel convenience, the RailOne application will be linked with Bharat Taxi. This integration aims to provide passengers with a reliable transport option immediately after they exit the station, reducing chaos and long waiting times outside.
The initiative is being developed in coordination with RailTel and is expected to support cooperative-based mobility solutions.
Dedicated waiting zones are being developed outside station buildings at multiple locations to regulate entry, especially for unreserved passengers. These holding areas will allow phased movement into platforms, preventing overcrowding in key sections of the station.
Clear signage and upgraded train information systems will also be introduced to keep passengers informed while they wait.
Railway officials stated that these measures are part of a broader plan to transform high-footfall stations into safer, more organised, and commuter-friendly spaces. Continuous monitoring at the ministry level will ensure timely execution and long-term improvements.
The initiative reflects Indian Railways’ increasing focus on combining digital innovation with infrastructure upgrades to deliver a smoother and safer travel experience for millions of daily passengers.
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