Indian Railways is set to modernise its century old control systems in a bid to curb accidents and ease congestion across the world’s fourth largest rail network. Senior officials confirmed that the Railway Board is drafting a blueprint centred on advanced decision support technology to streamline traffic control and raise operational efficiency.

The overhaul will replace fragmented, manually managed processes with an integrated, technology driven framework. At its heart will be a central command centre uniting every department involved in train operations. Equipped with real time monitoring, predictive algorithms and AI assisted planning tools, the hub will optimise train paths, manage emergencies swiftly and reduce human error.

Planners are studying control models from Japan, Russia, Germany, Switzerland, France and Spain, yet stress that any system must be customised for India’s uniquely complex network of mixed passenger and freight traffic. “Ready made systems cannot be imported,” a senior official noted. “Long haul freight trains, semi high speed sets and varied rolling stock have multiplied operational challenges.”

Calls for reform intensified after several serious accidents exposed weaknesses in existing controls. A dedicated committee has been tasked with recommending changes, and it is expected to prioritise real time surveillance tools, congestion prediction software and better staff training.

Retired chief controller Chandan Chaturvedee welcomed the initiative, describing current traffic control as “the nervous system of Indian Railways” yet historically under resourced. He believes the new plan will revitalise a critical but neglected workforce by providing modern tools and clearer career incentives.

The committee’s final proposals are due later this year, with phased implementation likely over the next decade, subject to funding and technical approvals.