How Indian Railways is Using AI to Protect Elephants on Tracks

In response to a tragic incident in Assam where eight elephants were killed by a train, Indian Railways is expanding its AI-based Intrusion Detection System to cover an additional 981 kilometers. This system alerts train operators about the presence of elephants on tracks, aiming to prevent wildlife casualties. The initiative reflects a commitment to wildlife conservation and safe train operations, with full implementation expected by April 2026. Learn more about how technology is being leveraged to protect wildlife along railway corridors.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 24, 2025, 19:03 IST

AI Technology to Safeguard Wildlife

New Delhi: Following a tragic incident in Assam where eight elephants lost their lives after being struck by a Rajdhani Express, the Railway Ministry has decided to enhance an AI-driven system designed to detect wild animals near railway tracks. This initiative will now cover an additional 981 kilometers in the northeastern region.

The ministry has awarded a contract for the installation of the AI-enabled Intrusion Detection System (IDS). Currently, this system is operational on a 141-kilometer stretch as part of a pilot project on the Northeast Frontier Railway.

The areas covered include Madarihat-Nagrakata in the Alipurduar division, Habaipur-Lamsakhang-Patharkhola-Lumding in the Lumding division, Kamakhya-Azara-Mirza in the Rangiya division, and Titabar-Mariani-Nakachari in Tinsukia.

The unfortunate event occurred early on December 20 when the Sairang-New Delhi Rajdhani Express collided with the herd in Changjurai village, located in Assam's Hojai district, resulting in the derailment of five coaches and the train's engine.

"Indian Railways has already implemented an AI-enabled Intrusion Detection System utilizing a Distributed Acoustic System (DAS) to identify elephants on the tracks. With the new contract, the total coverage will increase to 1,122 route kilometers," stated the ministry.

The IDS functions by providing real-time alerts to loco pilots, station masters, and control rooms regarding the movement of elephants near railway tracks, allowing for timely preventive measures.

In addition to the IDS, AI-based cameras will be installed to notify loco pilots 0.5 kilometers in advance about the presence of lions, tigers, and other wildlife, including elephants.

"Indian Railways is committed to preventing wildlife casualties, especially elephants, on railway tracks through technology-driven solutions," the ministry emphasized.

"The rollout and expansion of the AI-enabled Intrusion Detection System using DAS demonstrates Indian Railways' dedication to wildlife conservation and safe train operations," it added.

On October 20, the Northeast Frontier Railway zone announced that the IDS would be implemented across its network by April 2026 to mitigate the risk of elephants being harmed by speeding trains.

The NFR initially installed the IDS at two locations within the Lumding and Alipurduar divisions in 2022.

"The completion target for this expanded project is set for April 2026, by which time the system is expected to be fully operational across all designated elephant corridors," the NFR stated.