Bhubaneswar: In a major technology-driven initiative to enhance passenger safety during the ongoing Rath Yatra festivities, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) of the East Coast Railway (ECoR) has deployed its AI-powered robotic security platform, DSC ARJUN, at Puri Railway Station.

The deployment comes as lakhs of devotees continue to arrive in the pilgrim town for Bahuda Yatra, Suna Besha and Adharapana, resulting in a massive surge in passenger traffic at the station.

Named Dedicated Security Chassis Advanced Railway Junction Under Network Enabled Surveillance (DSC ARJUN), the robotic platform has been introduced to strengthen surveillance, improve crowd management and assist RPF personnel in ensuring passenger safety during the annual festival.

According to East Coast Railway, DSC ARJUN continuously patrols platforms, waiting halls, circulating areas and other key passenger zones while broadcasting safety messages through its integrated public announcement system. The robot advises passengers on safe boarding and deboarding practices, safeguarding their belongings, avoiding trespassing and maintaining orderly movement within railway premises.

The robotic platform is powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI), Computer Vision, Machine Learning and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, enabling it to function as a force multiplier for the RPF.

Its advanced capabilities include AI-based facial recognition, real-time crowd analytics, passenger headcount, unattended baggage detection, suspicious activity detection, live video streaming, public announcements and instant alert generation. These features enhance situational awareness, support quicker decision-making and strengthen preventive security measures.

East Coast Railway said the deployment of DSC ARJUN reflects its continued commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to improve passenger safety and operational efficiency during major religious gatherings.

By combining intelligent surveillance with the vigilance of RPF personnel, the AI-powered robotic platform is expected to help create a safer, smarter and more secure travel environment for the lakhs of devotees visiting Puri during the Rath Yatra celebrations.