Ranchi, June 15: In a pioneering move to prevent train-elephant collisions, the Chakradharpur division of South Eastern Railway, one of the highest revenue earner for railways, has introduced an advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based Intrusion Detection System near sensitive railway tracks.
The ₹15 crore initiative aims to detect the presence of elephants around the tracks and alert authorities in real time to avoid accidents.
The high-tech system integrates pressure-wave sensors, optical fibre cables, and AI algorithms to monitor elephant movements. If an elephant comes within 200 metres of the railway track, the system detects it instantly and sends alerts to the station master and control room. This early warning allows loco pilots to reduce train speed and avoid potential collisions.
To test the accuracy of the technology, a specially trained elephant from the “Vantara” wildlife centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat—operated by Anant Ambani, son of industrialist Mukesh Ambani—has been brought in. The elephant arrived in Chakradharpur after a six-day journey and will be used for a two-day live trial near the tracks. The data collected will help fine-tune the AI system and enhance future monitoring capabilities.
The AI system is being installed on elephant-prone routes including Manikui–Chandil, Dhutra–Bagdih, Kunki–Chandil, and Jaraikela–Mahadevsal. Installation work on these sections is in its final stages.
This initiative marks a significant step in Indian Railways’ efforts toward wildlife conservation. If successful, it could serve as a model for future projects using technology to balance development with ecological responsibility.
