To enhance their monitoring capabilities, Indian Railways has provided guidelines to all Zonal Railways and Public Sector Units (PSUs) to utilise Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or drones for mapping and monitoring transportation corridors and projects.
Drones are being utilised by Indian Railways in the following ways:
- Inspection of Bridges: Drones are being considered for inspecting bridges, especially those parts that are difficult to access manually. This enables a comprehensive visual assessment of bridge conditions.
- Surveillance of Vulnerable Locations: A drone camera has been acquired and is being used to surveil railway tracks at vulnerable locations within the South Western Railway zone. This helps in identifying and addressing potential issues promptly.
- Modern Coach Factory Deployment: At the Modern Coach Factory in Rae Bareilly, two UAVs/drones have been deployed for overhead monitoring and surveillance. This aids in ensuring the safety and smooth functioning of operations.
- West Central Railway Inspection: The West Central Railway zone employs a drone for the purpose of inspecting tracks and monitoring various railway projects. This assists in maintaining track integrity and project progress.
Furthermore, the Public Sector Units operating under the Ministry of Railways also employ drones for project monitoring, contributing to effective oversight and efficient project execution.
Incorporating drone technology into railway operations showcases Indian Railways' commitment to adopting modern and efficient tools for the maintenance and advancement of its infrastructure and services.
