Indian Railways has taken a groundbreaking step by launching its first drone-based cleaning operation at Kamakhya Railway Station in Assam. The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) successfully deployed drones to clean difficult-to-access areas such as train coach rooftops, elevated station structures, and maintenance sheds.
This initiative aims to enhance safety, efficiency, and hygiene standards in railway maintenance. Officials, including NFR’s Chief Public Relations Officer Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, have confirmed plans to expand this innovative technology across other major stations, aligning with Indian Railways’ broader vision of integrating cutting-edge solutions to modernise its vast network.
Drones Revolutionise Railway Maintenance
The recent pilot at Kamakhya Railway Station showcased drones equipped with high-pressure nozzles and advanced navigation systems that can clean areas traditionally challenging and hazardous for manual workers.
These drones meticulously targeted zones such as the coaching depot sick line, under-floor wheel lathe shed, station domes, and the exteriors of several train coaches. “This initiative is not just about cleaner trains or stations, it is about adopting smart, scalable solutions that improve safety, cut down costs, and align with global standards,” said Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, NFR’s Chief Public Relations Officer.
By reducing manual labour in risky locations, the drones not only enhance worker safety but also improve operational efficiency, potentially lowering long-term maintenance costs. The technology’s precision and ability to reach elevated or confined spaces mark a significant advancement in railway hygiene and upkeep.
Context and Future Prospects
For decades, Indian Railways has depended heavily on manual cleaning methods, often putting workers at risk when accessing elevated or structurally complex areas. The Kamakhya drone cleaning pilot is a pioneering effort that addresses these challenges by leveraging technology to protect workers and improve cleanliness.
This project aligns with the government’s Swachh Bharat Mission, which emphasises cleanliness and public health in public spaces. Encouraged by the success of this initiative, the Northeast Frontier Railway plans to extend drone cleaning operations to other major stations and trains within its jurisdiction.
This move reflects Indian Railways’ commitment to modernising infrastructure and adopting sustainable, innovative practices that can be scaled nationwide, ultimately enhancing passenger experience and operational safety.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Indian Railways’ adoption of drone technology for cleaning is a commendable leap towards safer and more efficient public transport infrastructure. Prioritising worker safety while embracing innovation exemplifies how technology can serve social good and foster sustainable progress.
This initiative not only improves hygiene standards but also reflects a broader commitment to empathy and care for the workforce that keeps India’s railways running.
As the nation moves forward with such technological advancements, it is crucial to ensure these benefits are inclusive and accessible to all communities, particularly those traditionally marginalised in labour-intensive sectors. How can we collectively encourage the equitable deployment of technology to create safer, cleaner, and more humane working environments across India?
