AI Technology Helps Prevent Thousands of Deer Collisions on Rail Routes
An innovative AI-based technology has significantly reduced the number of deer incidents on busy rail routes in England. The system, implemented by Network Rail and LNER, has successfully deterred nearly 6,000 deer from crossing tracks at two key locations.
The deterrent system, first installed at Stoke Junction near Stoke-on-Trent in May 2023 and later expanded to Little Bytham near Grantham in December 2023, utilizes artificial intelligence to detect approaching deer. Once a deer is identified, the system activates audible and visual alarms to discourage the animal from crossing the tracks.
Network Rail spokesperson expressed delight in the positive outcomes of the trial, emphasizing the importance of enhancing safety for both passengers and wildlife. Johanna Priestley, a route engineer at Network Rail, highlighted the dangers that animals face near railways and underscored the significance of these measures in protecting animals and ensuring passenger and crew safety.
During the trial period, data revealed that a total of 2,765 deer were deterred at Little Bytham and 3,147 at Stoke Junction. The system employs sensors to detect deer near the tracks, triggering alarms to divert them to a safe distance. A monitoring camera tracks the movement of the deer until it is safely away from the rail tracks.
Incidents of animals on the railways are relatively common, with about four reported incidents daily on average. Network Rail recorded 1,432 reports in the previous 12 months, with deer accounting for the majority of incidents at 349. Other animals such as sheep, birds, cows, and swans also posed risks on railway tracks.
Factors contributing to the rise in the deer population in the UK, estimated at two million today, include milder winters, increased woodland, and agricultural changes. These factors have led to an increase in deer living near railways, necessitating innovative solutions like the AI-based deterrent system to mitigate potential risks.
In conclusion, the successful implementation of AI technology in preventing deer collisions on rail routes underscores the importance of adopting advanced solutions to enhance safety for both passengers and wildlife. The expansion of this system to additional locations in the future is crucial in addressing the growing challenges posed by wildlife interactions with railway infrastructure.
