Indian Railways floated ₹3,200 Crore LiDAR Technology Tender to enhance Track Safety

The project entails the installation of LiDAR systems across 1,000 trains and approximately 1,500 kilometers of tracks. It is expected to be completed within 18 to 24 months, marking a substantial investment in the future of railway safety in India.

The LiDAR system employs laser beams to meticulously map the tracks, detect obstacles, and measure distances with precision. Sensors will be mounted on moving trains as well as at fixed points along the railway network to provide real-time data on track conditions. This proactive approach allows for quicker identification and resolution of track-related issues.

This initiative comes in response to a disturbing trend of sabotage attempts aimed at derailing trains. In 2024 alone, there were 24 reported attempts to manipulate tracks. Fortunately, the Indian Railways successfully thwarted 90% of these incidents. However, some derailments still occurred due to collisions with stationary objects, resulting in injuries to passengers.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has emphasized the urgency of addressing these security threats. He confirmed that the Indian Railways has sought assistance from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to probe these attempts further. The implementation of LiDAR technology is expected to accelerate the detection of track flaws, enabling quicker and more effective responses to any potential issues.

Several Indian companies are involved in the LiDAR technology project, including:

• NeoGeoInfo (Gurugram)
• Intraspatial (Bengaluru)
• Geokno (Hyderabad)

While Indian firms are making strides in the LiDAR domain, the global market is predominantly led by Chinese companies, such as Shanghai-based HESAI Technology. The involvement of Indian firms signifies a growing capability in advanced technologies within the country.

In addition to the LiDAR project, Indian Railways is also planning to install 7.5 million AI-powered CCTV cameras in coaches and locomotives, with an estimated investment of ₹15,000 crore. This initiative aims to further enhance safety measures across the railway network, ensuring a safer journey for passengers. Tenders for this project are expected to be issued soon.

The Indian Railways' initiative to integrate LiDAR technology into its operations represents a significant step towards ensuring the safety of its rail network. By leveraging advanced technology and real-time data, the railway authority aims to mitigate risks associated with train derailments and enhance the overall safety of passengers. As the project unfolds, it will be closely monitored to gauge its effectiveness and impact on railway operations across the country.