Alstom and FLOX Robotics have announced a joint project that will deploy technology to prevent collisions with wildlife on railway tracks, according to the Railway Supply portal, citing Railway News.

wildlife on railway tracks

Due to the speed and braking distance of trains, collisions with wildlife are a common occurrence on railway networks, resulting in animal fatalities, significant material damage, and emotional trauma for train drivers.

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As a result, Alstom and FLOX Robotics aim to address this issue to help prioritize wildlife conservation. This collaboration aims to implement an innovative solution that will repel animals and reduce the likelihood of track collisions.

The technology will use advanced image analytics and artificial intelligence algorithms to identify nearby animals and emit a specialized deterrent noise to deter them from the path of the train.

This project was developed in partnership with the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) to adapt and ensure sustainable effectiveness over time, distinguishing it from alternative solutions that lose efficiency as animals become accustomed to the repellent.

Tests conducted in Sweden with Trafikverket showed an 88% effectiveness rate.

Ultimately, the companies expect its effectiveness to have a global impact. For example, Sweden reports 5,000 railway collisions with wildlife annually, France reports 2,000 collisions per year, and Norway reports 1,250 collisions per year.

Photo: Wildlife on the railway © Kevin Woblick

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