By Kavita Mistry 
Indian Railways has taken a significant step towards incorporating innovative technologies for maintaining cleanliness. Kamakhya railway station in Assam conducted the first-ever drone-based cleaning operation, marking a milestone in railway maintenance practices. This pilot experiment showcases the potential of drones in enhancing hygiene and efficiency within the Indian railway network.
Drone-Based Cleaning: A Revolutionary Initiative
The drone-based cleaning operation at Kamakhya railway station focused on cleaning hard-to-reach areas that are typically difficult for manual labor to access. These areas included the roofs of train coaches, elevated station structures, and other high-rise zones. By utilizing drones, the operation was able to perform precise cleaning with improved accessibility and efficiency.
Areas Covered During the Demonstration
The demonstration included cleaning several key areas within the station premises:
- Kamakhya Coaching Depot Sick Line
- Under-Floor Wheel Lathe Shed
- Exterior Dome Portion of Kamakhya Station
- Various Train Coaches
These areas were cleaned with drones that efficiently navigated the elevated spaces and delicate surfaces, showcasing how drone technology can address challenges in traditional cleaning methods.
Benefits of Drone-Based Cleaning
According to Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, the Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), this initiative aligns with the Indian Railways’ ongoing commitment to adopting smart, technology-driven solutions. Drone-based cleaning provides several key advantages:
- Enhanced Precision and Efficiency: Drones can clean with high precision, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
- Safety: Reduces the need for manual labor in hazardous or elevated zones, minimizing the risk of accidents.
- Cost-Effectiveness: It offers a more efficient solution than traditional methods, potentially lowering operational costs over time.
The Future of Drone-Based Cleaning in Indian Railways
The success of the pilot demonstration at Kamakhya station is set to pave the way for broader implementation across other major railway stations and trains within the Northeast Frontier Railway network. This initiative is in line with Indian Railways’ vision of incorporating cutting-edge maintenance practices, adhering to global standards of cleanliness and efficiency.
Conclusion
Northeast Frontier Railway’s use of drone technology for cleaning is an exciting development in the modernization of India’s rail infrastructure. It demonstrates the potential of using tech-driven solutions for improving hygiene, safety, and operational efficiency in railway maintenance.