Railroads will have to use automated systems to check tracks for safety

The US railroad safety agency wants to require major railroads to use automated systems to inspect tracks. This means fewer human inspectors and more consistent, data-driven safety checks on busy lines.

For decades, track inspections relied heavily on human eyes and judgment. This proposed rule shifts the burden to machines, which can detect subtle flaws humans might miss. It also means railroads will need to invest in new technology and data systems, changing how they manage maintenance and risk.