Meet ‘ASC ARJUN’: Indian Railways deploys humanoid robot at busy Railway Station

The initiative marks a first-of-its-kind deployment on the Indian Railways network and reflects the organisation’s push towards adopting emerging technologies for public convenience and operational efficiency. The humanoid robot will work alongside Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel, particularly during periods of heavy passenger movement.

The robot was unveiled by Inspector General (RPF) Shri Alok Bohra and Divisional Railway Manager Shri Lalit Bohra, in the presence of Senior Divisional Security Commandant (RPF) Shri A.K. Dubey. The launch underscored Indian Railways’ emphasis on innovation-driven and indigenous solutions.

ASC ARJUN has been fully designed and developed in Visakhapatnam using home-grown technology. A dedicated team worked for over a year to complete the project, highlighting Indian Railways’ growing capability to integrate advanced systems into routine operations.

Equipped with a Face Recognition System (FRS), AI-based crowd monitoring tools, and real-time alert mechanisms linked to RPF control rooms, the humanoid robot will assist in intrusion detection and proactive security management. It can also make automated public announcements in English, Hindi, and Telugu to guide passengers and enhance safety awareness.

The robot features semi-autonomous navigation with predefined patrol routes and obstacle-avoidance capabilities, enabling round-the-clock platform surveillance while optimising manpower deployment. It is also fitted with fire and smoke detection systems to support rapid response during emergencies.

Designed for passenger engagement, ASC ARJUN can perform friendly gestures such as offering a Namaste to passengers and saluting RPF personnel, while providing information and assistance through a user-friendly interface.

Indian Railways said it remains committed to leveraging technology and indigenous innovation to build a safer, more secure, and passenger-friendly railway ecosystem across the country.