Inside Indian Railways’ War Room: How AI, CCTV help manage Diwali and Chhath Puja rush

Indian Railways employs advanced technology, including artificial intelligence and live CCTV feeds, to efficiently manage the influx of passengers during Diwali and Chhath Puja. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw conducted a review of the War Room's operations at Rail Bhawan in New Delhi, where officials monitor multiple stations and track train movements to ensure smooth operations.

The War Room, a centralized monitoring facility, utilizes live CCTV feeds of key areas like platforms and station surroundings, enabling officials to zoom in on specific locations for detailed examination. Artificial intelligence systems aid in analyzing activities and incidents, allowing for prompt responses to any issues. Beyond crowd management, the War Room also helps track train delays, enabling officials to implement corrective measures for improved punctuality.

This year, Indian Railways has introduced over 18,000 special trains, compared to approximately 12,000 last year, to handle the festive rush. A total of 28 railway stations are monitored through the War Room in Rail Bhawan, encompassing major hubs such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and others. Additionally, 700 AI-enabled cameras are deployed for monitoring.

Preparations for the festival peak began six months prior, with a focus on accommodating the anticipated surge in passenger numbers ahead of Chhath Puja.