Indian Railways has made significant strides in strengthening its telecom and digital infrastructure during the year 2025-26, with a focused approach towards enhancing safety, improving operational efficiency, and delivering a better travel experience to passengers. It has played a pivotal role in driving modernization through the adoption of advanced technologies, robust communication systems, and innovative passenger-centric solutions.

Enhancement of Unified Telecom Backbone Infrastructure

A major achievement during the year has been the enhancement of the Unified Telecom Backbone Infrastructure through Internet Protocol Multi-Protocol Label Switching (IP MPLS) technology. This high-capacity network is being developed to meet present and future bandwidth requirements of mission-critical railway applications. The system enables centralized accessibility of video surveillance and will support core railway systems such as Mobile Train Radio Communication (MTRC), Passenger Reservation System (PRS), Unreserved Ticketing System (UTS), Freight Operations Information System (FOIS), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), video conferencing, and other operational applications. So far, IP MPLS has been successfully commissioned at 1,396 railway stations, marking a significant step towards a digitally integrated railway ecosystem.

AI-Enabled Video Surveillance for Passenger Safety

In the area of passenger safety and security, Indian Railways has expanded its Video Surveillance System (VSS) across 1,874 railway stations. The system is equipped with advanced AI-based Video Analytics for automated detection of events such as intrusion and loitering, along with Facial Recognition Software for real-time identification and monitoring. Highlighting the importance of this technological advancement, the Union Railway Minister, who had earlier stated that “the cameras will be the eyes of the system, and AI will be its brain”, emphasized the transformative role of artificial intelligence in strengthening railway security.

Upgradation of Passenger Information Systems with Real-Time Announcements

Passenger information systems have also witnessed major upgrades with the expansion of the Integrated Passenger Information System (IPIS). Equipped with Electronic Train Indicator Boards, Coach Guidance Systems, and Public Address Systems, IPIS ensures timely dissemination of train-related information. The integration of IPIS with the National Train Enquiry System (NTES) enables automatic, real-time announcements at stations. To date, this integration has been achieved at 1,405 stations across Indian Railways.

Tunnel Communication Systems for Seamless Connectivity

Further enhancing communication capabilities, the provision of Tunnel Communication Systems has been undertaken across various railway zones, including the strategically significant Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project. This system ensures uninterrupted radio communication between personnel inside tunnels to headquarters and operation control centers, thereby improving safety and coordination in challenging terrains.

Commitment to a Modern, Safe, and Technology-Driven Railway Ecosystem

These initiatives undertaken during 2025-26 underscore Indian Railways’ commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology and innovation for building a safer, smarter, and more efficient railway network. The continued expansion of telecom infrastructure, deployment of AI-driven systems, and enhancement of passenger information services are collectively contributing towards a modernized rail ecosystem that is responsive to the needs of passengers and aligned with the vision of Digital India.

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Dharmendra Tewari/ Dr. Nayan Solanki/ Ritu Raj