What is DRISHTI and How Does It Work?

The Indian Railways has introduced an innovative AI-driven system named ‘DRISHTI’ to monitor freight wagon locking in real time. Designed to enhance operational safety and efficiency, DRISHTI uses advanced sensors, cameras, and machine learning algorithms to detect unlocked or improperly locked wagons during transit. The system continuously scans freight trains, alerts control rooms, and notifies train staff in case of anomalies. By leveraging artificial intelligence, DRISHTI can process vast amounts of visual and sensor data instantaneously, ensuring prompt corrective action and minimizing human error in monitoring wagon security.

Safety and Efficiency Gains for Freight Transport
The deployment of DRISHTI is expected to significantly improve safety across India’s freight network. Unsecured wagons pose risks of accidents, cargo loss, and potential sabotage; the AI monitoring system ensures that wagons are locked correctly before and during transit, thereby reducing such incidents. Additionally, DRISHTI allows real-time tracking and predictive maintenance, enabling railway operators to detect patterns of recurring locking failures and address them proactively. By minimizing delays due to manual inspections and securing freight more reliably, the system also contributes to operational efficiency, higher cargo throughput, and better service reliability for industries relying on rail logistics.

Broader Implications for Rail Infrastructure Modernisation
DRISHTI represents a step towards the broader digital transformation of Indian Railways. Its adoption signals a shift to technology-driven solutions for safety, security, and operational excellence. The system complements ongoing initiatives such as digital signalling, automated ticketing, predictive maintenance, and smart freight corridors. Over time, AI-enabled monitoring systems like DRISHTI could integrate with other digital platforms, including logistics tracking, cargo management, and asset monitoring, creating a more resilient and intelligent rail network.

Experts suggest that widespread adoption of DRISHTI and similar technologies can position India as a leader in modern railway logistics, reduce operational risks, and support industrial supply chains more effectively. By embracing AI and smart monitoring solutions, Indian Railways is not only enhancing safety and efficiency but also laying the foundation for a future-ready, technologically advanced transport infrastructure.