Dormakaba, a world-renowned leader in secure access control solutions, played a pivotal role in shaping discussions on next-generation railway security at the recent 3rd Rail Modernization Summit held in New Delhi. This prestigious event, organized by Traicon Events and featuring Business Review Live as a media partner, brought together key stakeholders within the Indian railway industry. In this exclusive interview, Mr. Amit Kumar Sharma, Business Development Lead (ENSC- Entrance Products) at Dormakaba, sheds light on the company’s innovative solutions designed to revolutionize rail access control and rail security, paving the way for a more secure and efficient future for Indian Railways.
Question 1: Dormakaba is known for its innovative security solutions. Can you tell us about any new access control technologies you’re introducing specifically for the rail industry?
Dormakaba is pioneering the integration of automatic fare collection (AFC) systems with high-speed barriers. This will create a seamless entry process for passengers holding valid tickets, restricting unauthorized platform access. This technology significantly benefits Indian Railways, enhancing security and safety and potentially increasing revenue collection. We anticipate its implementation in upcoming modernized railway stations.
Question 2: Beyond platform access control, does Dormakaba offer solutions for other areas within the railway network?
Absolutely. Dormakaba’s robust electronic access control solutions are ideal for securing back office areas, administrative buildings, and other restricted zones within railway facilities. These systems ensure controlled access for authorized personnel, contributing to a more secure environment.
Question 3: The railway industry faces unique security challenges. How is Dormakaba helping to address these concerns?
Dormakaba recognizes the multifaceted security challenges within the railway industry, particularly the numerous unguarded entry points to platforms. Infiltration by unauthorized individuals poses a significant risk, increasing congestion and compromising overall rail safety.
To address this, Dormakaba proposes the integration of high-speed swing barriers with Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) systems. Like metro stations where QR tickets grant access through barriers, this technology would restrict platform entry to authorized ticket holders in railway stations.
AFC (Automatic Fare Collection) is a software-based system that verifies passenger tickets before granting access through integrated barriers. This eliminates manual verification, streamlines the entry process, and ensures only authorized individuals enter platforms, significantly enhancing security and reducing congestion.
Dormakaba’s high-speed swing barriers and AFC technology offer a modern and efficient solution for railway platform access control. This cashless and automated system mirrors the successful implementation in metro stations, promoting a more secure and streamlined passenger experience.
Question 4: How does Dormakaba incorporate sustainability into its rail solutions?
Dormakaba prioritizes environmental responsibility throughout its product lifecycle. This commitment is reflected in their achievement of Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) certification for many of their products.
EPD (Environmental Product Declaration) is a third-party verified document assessing a product’s environmental impact across its lifespan. This includes the product’s materials, manufacturing processes, use phase, and eventual disposal. By obtaining EPD certification, Dormakaba demonstrates transparency and a commitment to sustainable practices within the railway industry.
Question 5: Can you share examples of successful rail projects where Dormakaba has implemented innovative solutions?
Dormakaba’s focus for the Indian railway sector lies in pioneering future-proof security solutions. While no large-scale implementations of AFC-integrated high-speed barriers exist, the concept is actively discussed with railway authorities.
The success stories lie in Dormakaba’s proven track record within the metro rail industry. Their vision is to adapt this highly secure and efficient platform access control system for Indian railways, significantly enhancing security and streamlining passenger experience.
Question 6: The current state of access control presents challenges in rail stations. What are your thoughts on the future of rail access and security systems, and how does Dormakaba envision its solutions shaping that future?
Dormakaba sees a future with secure and controlled platform access. Unrestricted entry currently leads to congestion, security risks, and strains of resources. Our proposed integration of high-speed barriers with AFC systems, inspired by successful models in metro stations, addresses these concerns. This technology would restrict entry to ticketed passengers, reducing congestion and enhancing security. Streamlined access would also optimize resource allocation. Imagine platforms resembling organized, secure environments like airports, eliminating passenger stress and facilitating smoother movement. Dormakaba’s approach leverages successful security models from other transportation systems, reflecting a broader trend in the industry towards replicating these models for a more secure and efficient future for both passengers and railway operations.
