GUWHAATI: Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), in collaboration with IIT Guwahati, has introduced Project DRISHTI, an AI-based system to improve the safety and security of freight wagons across the zone. It was formally inaugurated at NFR Headquarters, Maligaon, on September 25.
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The system combines high-speed cameras, intelligent lighting, secure networking and Artificial Intelligence to monitor wagon doors, locks and seals, and to detect possible irregularities or pilferage during transit. Representatives of IIT Guwahati and senior railway officials attended the programme.
As trains pass through designated monitoring points, the system examines freight wagons, identifies wagon numbers and assesses the condition of doors, locks and seals. It can help determine whether seals and locks are intact or whether a possible irregularity needs attention. It will also digitally record inspection findings, enabling timely action by railway personnel.
Addressing the gathering, NFR General Manager Chetan Kumar Shrivastava highlighted the role of freight transportation in sustaining the nation's supply chains, moving essential commodities and supporting industry and agriculture. He noted that for NFR, where geography and environmental challenges make road transport difficult, railways are a lifeline for the regional economy. He stressed the importance of ensuring that wagon doors are properly closed and securely sealed to safeguard cargo.
Such inspection was earlier carried out manually, which could be challenging and time-consuming, particularly at night and in adverse weather. Faster, more reliable technology-enabled inspection is expected to strengthen freight monitoring, reduce delays, ease the work of frontline staff including RPF and commercial personnel, and lessen dependence on manual checks alone.
The General Manager congratulated the teams of IIT Guwahati and NFR officers, supervisors and technicians for turning the concept into a technological solution. He expressed hope that Project DRISHTI would achieve further success and pave the way for more collaborative projects between NFR and IIT Guwahati in the years ahead.
