Indian Railways Tests AI-Based Stain Detection to Improve Linen Quality

Indian Railways has launched pilot projects using artificial intelligence-based camera systems to detect stains on washed linen at mechanised laundries in the Pune, Jaipur and Jodhpur divisions. The initiative is aimed at strengthening quality control and ensuring that passengers travelling in air-conditioned coaches receive cleaner and more hygienic bedrolls.

The automated system uses AI-enabled cameras to inspect linen after washing and identify visible stains that may have escaped conventional quality checks. The technology is being tested at Pune Division under Central Railway and the Jaipur and Jodhpur divisions of North Western Railway. The results of the pilot could guide its wider deployment across the railway network.

Indian Railways currently provides each AC-class passenger with a sealed bedroll packet containing two bed sheets, a pillow cover and a hand towel. One bed sheet is placed on the berth, while the second is intended to be used beneath the blanket to prevent direct contact between the passenger and the blanket. This covering sheet is washed after every use.

As part of another passenger-comfort initiative, separate blanket covers are being provided to AC-class passengers on trains operated by North Western Railway and on the Vande Bharat Sleeper service running between Kamakhya and Howrah. According to the Ministry of Railways, the initiative has received positive feedback from passengers.

All mechanised railway laundries are already equipped with Whito-Meters, which measure the whiteness and cleaning effectiveness of washed linen. CCTV cameras have also been installed across railway laundries to enable continuous monitoring of washing, drying, ironing, folding and packaging operations.

Railway rules prescribe a fixed service life for each component of the linen kit. Handloom bed sheets are generally used for 12 months, while Polyvastra bed sheets supplied by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission have a service life of 24 months. Pillow covers and face towels are replaced after nine months, while pillows and woollen blankets have a prescribed life of 24 months. Items that become worn, damaged or unserviceable before completing their prescribed life are withdrawn and replaced.

The introduction of AI-assisted stain detection adds a technology-driven inspection layer to the existing laundry monitoring system. By combining automated visual inspection, Whito-Meter testing and CCTV surveillance, Indian Railways aims to improve linen cleanliness, standardise quality checks and enhance the overall travel experience of AC-class passengers.

The information was provided by Union Minister for Railways, Information and Broadcasting, and Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha on July 24, 2026.