Jan 25: In a landmark step towards technology-driven railway operations, Indian Railways has deployed a humanoid robot named ASC ARJUN at Visakhapatnam Railway Station to enhance passenger safety, security, and overall service delivery. This initiative marks a first-of-its-kind deployment of a humanoid robot across the Indian Railways network.
The robot will function alongside personnel of the Railway Protection Force (RPF), assisting in station operations, particularly during periods of heavy passenger movement. Railway officials stated that the deployment reflects Indian Railways’ growing emphasis on adopting emerging technologies to enhance operational efficiency and public convenience.
ASC ARJUN was formally unveiled by Inspector General (RPF) Alok Bohra and Divisional Railway Manager Lalit Bohra in the presence of Senior Divisional Security Commandant (RPF) A.K. Dubey. Officials noted that the project underlines Indian Railways’ focus on innovation-led and indigenously developed solutions.
Designed and developed entirely in Visakhapatnam using home-grown technology, ASC ARJUN is the outcome of more than a year of dedicated effort by a specialised technical team. The Ministry of Railways said the initiative showcases the organisation’s expanding capability to integrate advanced technological systems into routine railway operations.
The humanoid robot is equipped with a Face Recognition System (FRS) for intrusion detection, AI-based crowd monitoring, and the generation of real-time alerts for RPF control rooms. It can also make automated public announcements in English, Hindi, and Telugu, assisting passengers while promoting safety awareness.
Featuring semi-autonomous navigation with obstacle-avoidance capability, ASC ARJUN can patrol station platforms round the clock, supporting surveillance activities and optimising manpower deployment. The robot is also fitted with fire and smoke detection systems, enabling quicker response during emergencies.
Beyond its security role, ASC ARJUN has been designed to interact with passengers. It can greet travellers with a ‘Namaste’, salute RPF personnel, and provide information and assistance through an interactive interface, enhancing the passenger experience at the station.
According to the Ministry of Railways, the deployment of ASC ARJUN is part of a broader strategy to leverage artificial intelligence, robotics, and indigenous innovation to create a safer, more secure, and passenger-friendly railway environment. The initiative signals a significant step forward in modernising railway infrastructure while strengthening public safety across busy transit hubs
