Railway safety boost: Indian Railways introduces new measures to protect tracks from floods and cyclones
Indian Railways is implementing a permanent solution to ensure that train services remain unaffected by natural disasters like floods and cyclones. The focus is on modernizing track maintenance and using high-tech monitoring to keep passenger journeys safe. These steps aim to prevent track washouts during heavy rains.
How will railways monitor tracks during monsoon
The Railway Board has issued a high alert for the upcoming monsoon. To ensure safety, drone cameras will be used to monitor rail bridges. A Water Level Monitoring System will be linked directly to the Bridge Management System (BMS) to track river levels in real-time. Additionally, stocks of boulders, sandbags, and soil have been gathered for quick repairs.
What are the new technology updates for track safety
Rail Minister Ashwini Vaishnav announced the deployment of Integrated Track Monitoring System (ITMS) machines across all zones with an investment of ₹180 crore over the next five years. To maintain train speed during waterlogging, Multi Section Digital Axle Counter (MSDAC) equipment has been installed. Furthermore, AI and automation are being used at 1,874 stations for real-time security updates.
Key safety measures and official directives
| Date | Measure/Update | Official Authority |
|---|---|---|
| 22 April 2026 | Focus on track modernization and machine maintenance | Ashwini Vaishnav |
| 26 March 2026 | Drone monitoring of bridges and high alert for monsoon | Abhimanyu Lamba |
| 27 February 2026 | Six special rules for track safety during summer | Braj Bhushan Singh Tomar |
| 8 April 2026 | AI and Automation at 1,874 stations | Indian Railways |
| 16 July 2025 | Installation of MSDAC for waterlogged tracks | Indian Railways |