Indian Railways being one of the most critical segments in the process of COVID unlocking has to move beyond the traditional means for ensuring that the preventive measures are being undertaken. In a series of moves taken in this direction, Indian Railways may invite tenders again from Indian companies for supplying thermal cameras.
This step would promote both “Make in India” endeavour and give an opportunity to Indian companies having the niche technology to come forth and support self-sufficiency.
The Artificial Intelligence (AI) based equipment is to have the ability of measuring body temperatures and detecting the people not wearing masks. RailTel requires to buy 800 such camera systems to be placed at different spots. Apart from dealing with the current challenges faced by public utility bodies to ensure preventive measures, the cameras can also be evolved to have facial recognition system (FRS) with existing databases such as the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems (CCTNS) to identify criminals on need basis.
Few companies incubated in IIT like ACSG Corp have the technology to address such needs. For instance, ACSG Corp had developed advanced analytics and automation software frameworks that are capable of catering to rising needs of Critical infrastructure analytics which is important for developing such instruments.
The concept of thermal cameras was taken from Chinese company Hikvision, however facing criticism from Indian vendors on specific requirements, RailTel gave away certain less needed specifications such as “Deep in Mind” and retained the urgent requirement of “blackbody temperature” in the revised tender invitation to be released soon.
“EOI for selection of partner for thermal temperature screening solution to RCIL’s customers’ was cancelled but a fresh EOI will be published soon,” a notice by the state-owned company said.
“Bidder shall mention country of manufacturing against each item in SOR (schedule of requirement). In case country of manufacturing is not mentioned by the bidder, RailTel reserves the right to reject his offer. Moreover, GoI’s Present as well as Future Guideline regarding foreign country material will be applicable,” the new tender documents said.
Once the concept becomes a reality, it may become indispensable for major sectors dealing in critical infrastructure. Also, it has become extremely important for India in the contemporary times, given the enormous population movement, triggered post the three phase deep lock-down duration.
This gives an opportunity to Indian firms to develop advanced analytics solutions for critical infrastructure. Companies like ACSG Corp and others can now harness their potential to evolve the industry in this direction of self-sustenance and boost “Make in India” endeavour.
