Northeast Frontier Railway Introduces Drone-Based Cleaning at Kamakhya Station
Guwahati: In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) successfully carried out a drone-assisted cleaning operation at Assam’s Kamakhya Railway Station. Conducted on a trial basis, the demonstration highlighted the use of drone technology to clean hard-to-reach and elevated areas within the station premises and on the exteriors of train coaches.NFR’s Chief Public Relations Officer, Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, informed that the exercise covered several critical areas including the Kamakhya coaching depot sick line, the under-floor wheel lathe shed, the dome-shaped structures of the station, and multiple train coaches. The operation underscored the effectiveness of drones in navigating complex structures, ensuring thorough cleaning with greater ease and precision.According to Sharma, the innovative project not only showcases technological advancement but also reflects NFR’s dedication to enhancing maintenance standards. "The use of drones significantly reduces the risks associated with manual cleaning in hazardous or elevated zones, while also increasing efficiency and accuracy," he stated.The success of this pilot project paves the way for the broader use of drone-based cleaning technologies across other major stations and trains under the NFR's jurisdiction. By leveraging such smart maintenance practices, NFR aims to align with Indian Railways’ broader vision of adopting modern, international-standard solutions for infrastructure upkeep.Highlighting the broader implications, Sharma emphasized that the move towards technology-driven cleaning methods contributes to creating a safer, cleaner, and more sustainable environment for both railway staff and passengers. The NFR continues to set benchmarks in the adoption of green and smart technologies, reinforcing its commitment to operational excellence.This latest innovation positions Northeast Frontier Railway as a pioneer within Indian Railways, setting an example for other zones to follow in integrating advanced technology into everyday railway maintenance practices.
