AI-Powered Face Recognition to be used by Indian Railways

The Indian train network is integrating cutting-edge AI and facial recognition technologies into its CCTV cameras to improve security and reduce crime. The Ministry of Railways will install 4K cameras by Herta Security coupled with AI video analytics in the train cars.

 Initially, these were installed in the major eastern stations and now there are plans to expand the same significantly. In order to ensure comprehensive surveillance, the plan is to outfit 38,255 coaches with 8 cameras each, with varying setups for other coaches.

Real time facial recognition shall be employed by the system in order to monitor the passengers wherein the facial data shall be sent to a central server and the images of all individuals, including children, shall be captured. It is amid the ongoing debates about privacy and data protection, that the development comes at the time when India’s Digital Personal Data Protection Act is still under review.

IDIS Global, a security technology company, and Herta Security are key players in this project. IDIS Global’s systems will provide AI-driven threat alerts and mobile surveillance capabilities, enhancing the efficiency of security operations whereas the facial recognition technology shall be taken from Herta Security. The latter’s real-time identification and ability to work in diverse conditions, including detecting emotions and gaze direction is industry known.

The facial recognition, as a biometric tool, poses significant privacy risks and could be used for more intrusive surveillance or even undermine democratic freedoms by deterring protests or political participation.

There have also been concerns raised over the lack of legislative framework governing the use of facial recognition, urging for a clear, regulated approach to address privacy and ethical implications. There is no response yet by the Ministry of Railways on the questions or concerns raised.