As the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) continues to expand its network with Phase 4, it is also making a strategic move towards technological advancement. By integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into its operations and project management, DMRC aims to modernize the transit system, streamline processes and significantly improve the passenger experience.
Here’s a look at how DMRC is integrating AI into its operations:
AI-powered virtual assistant ‘Chitna’
A major milestone in DMRC’s technological transformation is the recent launch of the AI-powered chatbot ‘Chetna’. Accessible on DMRC’s official website, ‘Chetna’ is designed to provide commuters with instant access to essential metro information. From trip planning and real-time route guidance to ticketing details and answers to common questions, ‘Chetna’ aims to streamline the travel experience for millions of commuters in Delhi every day.
Driverless train technology
DMRC is not only providing virtual assistance but also making significant progress in driverless train operations. The Magenta Line (Junkpuri West to Botanical Garden), with 25 stations spread over about 37 km, was the first line to adopt driverless. Technology In December 2020. Subsequently, the Pink Line (Majlis Park to Shiv Vihar) began driverless operations in November 2021. With these successful implementations, the Magenta Line is now completely driverless, setting an example for other lines.
According to Anuj Dayal, principal executive director of corporate communications at DMRC, the corporation plans to purchase 312 metro coaches (52 trains) specially designed for driverless operations on priority corridors.
This initiative is in line with DMRC’s vision of adopting advanced technology to improve efficiency and reduce human error.
Also read: Delhi Metro Update: Ratla-Narela Metro Corridor to be extended to Haryana – Inside Details
Future of Delhi Metro with AI integration
The DMRC is also planning to adopt new technologies such as CCTV monitoring and facial recognition for crowd control, highlighting the ongoing progress in the sector.
In an interview with PTI, DMRC Managing Director Vikas Kumar discussed the role of AI in further improving the decision-making process. By integrating AI into its operations, including predictive maintenance, DMRC aims to improve maintenance schedules and reduce bottlenecks.
“So the driving force here is technology that you can distribute. But if you actually combine it with AI, as AI sits at the top of the decision-making process, it’s much more efficient and effective. Decision making is a very nascent field, so a lot of development is needed and the more impressive the AI is, the more data you have, the better the AI will be able to predict. “So AI can be predictive, so we’re working on that as well,” Kumar explained.