Drug Trafficking, AI Surveillance in Focus at 7th GRP Chiefs’ Conference in Delhi
New Delhi, 24th February 2026: The 7th All India Conference of Government Railway Police (GRP) Chiefs concluded at Vigyan Bhawan on Monday, with senior police and railway officials deliberating on measures to strengthen passenger safety and protect railway infrastructure across the country.
The conference, convened by the Railway Protection Force (RPF), was presided over by Director General Sonali Mishra and attended by Directors General of Police, Additional Directors General and senior GRP officers from various states and Union Territories. Chairman and CEO of Indian Railway Board Satish Kumar and Members of the Railway Board were also present.
Discussions centred on evolving a coordinated programme of action and procedural framework to address emerging security challenges in the railway network. Officials reviewed concerns relating to organized crime, narcotics trafficking, vandalism, stone pelting and potential acts of sabotage. The need for improved infrastructure and basic facilities for GRP personnel was also taken up.
Given the vast geographical spread, heavy passenger footfall and open-access design of the railway system, participants highlighted vulnerabilities that require closer coordination between state police forces and the RPF. The conference explored a multi-layered security approach integrating technology, intelligence sharing, field coordination and community engagement.
Officials emphasised the deployment of facial recognition system-based CCTV cameras, AI-enabled video analytics and drone surveillance to enhance monitoring and crime detection. The RPF chief outlined the adoption of new technological tools in field operations for improved identification of offenders and prevention of crime.
Curbing drug trafficking emerged as a key agenda item. A senior officer from the Narcotics Control Bureau made a presentation stressing proactive surveillance and real-time intelligence sharing to dismantle networks using the railway system for transporting narcotic substances.
Participants also underscored the importance of regular mock drills and scenario-based training modules focusing on first response, evacuation, crowd control and incident management. Incidents of stone pelting and sabotage, which disrupt train operations and endanger passengers, were discussed with an emphasis on preventive strategies, legal action and outreach in vulnerable areas.
The conference concluded with officials agreeing to enhance coordination between GRP units and the RPF to address security concerns affecting railway passengers and infrastructure.
