New Delhi: In a significant move to enhance passenger safety and improve crowd management, Indian Railways is set to pilot a QR code-based access control system at New Delhi Railway Station in anticipation of the festive rush during Diwali and Chhath. This decision was made during a high-level review meeting chaired by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw at Rail Bhawan, where key reforms concerning station access, passenger amenities, and security were discussed.
The new system will regulate entry into the station through QR codes linked to valid tickets, allowing for better segregation of Reserved, Monthly Season Ticket (MST), and Unreserved passengers. This initiative aims to reduce overcrowding within the station premises.
To further enhance crowd control, designated holding areas are being developed outside the station buildings at 76 railway stations. These areas will facilitate phased entry for passengers, particularly unreserved travelers, thereby preventing congestion in concourses and platforms.
Railways has also mandated improvements in signage across stations to provide clear guidance for different categories of passengers. Additionally, real-time train information systems will be upgraded to keep waiting passengers informed.
In a major technological upgrade, AI-powered surveillance systems will be deployed at New Delhi Railway Station. Cameras installed at platforms, entry-exit points, and high-risk zones will be monitored through an advanced control room capable of detecting unusual or unsafe activities in real time. The Minister described the system, stating that cameras will act as the “eyes” while Artificial Intelligence will serve as the “brain,” enabling proactive monitoring and rapid response.
The Railway Protection Force (RPF) will be strategically deployed to ensure that only ticketed passengers enter the station premises, marking a shift from manual checks to surveillance-based enforcement.
To improve accountability, a color-coded uniform and identification system will be introduced for all station personnel, including railway staff, vendors, contractual workers, and support staff. Fluorescent jackets and ID cards will help authorities easily identify individuals within the station premises.
Officials indicated that these reforms will first be implemented at New Delhi Railway Station and later replicated across other high-footfall stations nationwide. This initiative reflects Indian Railways’ broader vision of transforming major stations into safer, more organized, and passenger-friendly hubs by integrating technology with infrastructure upgrades.
