Not all AI is trying to take over the world, on London’s Tube it will be saving some lives. In a significant move towards modernizing London’s transport safety systems, Transport for London (TfL) has announced plans to expand its artificial intelligence trials across the network. This development comes as part of TfL’s ongoing efforts to improve passenger safety on station platforms throughout London’s extensive public transport system.
The innovative technology is currently being tested at Custom House DLR station in east London, following successful trials at Willesden Green Underground station. The AI system uses advanced camera technology to monitor platform activity, specifically designed to identify objects on the rails while filtering out regular train movements.
At Willesden Green, the 2022-2023 trials demonstrated the AI’s versatility, detecting multiple safety concerns including fare evasion, potential weapons, and passengers standing too close to platform edges. This comprehensive approach to platform safety represents a significant step forward in TfL’s use of modern technology.
The announcement is particularly timely following recent safety concerns, including an incident involving Lord Blunkett, who was injured at Westminster station after falling into a platform gap. Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan emphasized that “safety is always TfL’s priority” and that “each injury is one too many.”
TfL plans to implement these AI trials at additional locations across the network in the latter half of 2025. The technology is part of a broader safety initiative that aims to keep passengers safe and enable staff to respond quickly to incidents.
For Londoners and visitors alike, this development represents another example of how the world’s oldest underground system continues to innovate and adapt to modern challenges. The implementation of AI technology follows in the great tradition of London Underground innovations, from the first electric locomotives to modern signaling systems.
While the Tube’s platform-train safety record already compares favorably to the national rail network, these new measures demonstrate TfL’s commitment to continuous improvement and passenger safety. The initiative is separate from Sir Keir Starmer’s recently announced AI Opportunities Action Plan, representing a London-specific solution to urban transport challenges.
This latest development in London Underground’s history showcases how the network continues to evolve while maintaining its position as one of the world’s most advanced metro systems. As always, we’ll keep Londontopia readers updated on these exciting developments in London’s transport infrastructure.