Transforming railway transportation: the role of emerging technologies in efficiency, safety, and sustainability

This review explores the transformative role of emerging technologies in railway transportation, emphasizing their contributions to efficiency, safety, and sustainability. With the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), Digital Twin technology, and autonomous systems, the railway industry is transitioning towards intelligent and interconnected networks. These advancements address critical challenges such as predictive maintenance, energy optimization, and real-time decision-making, ensuring operational resilience and enhanced passenger experiences. The review methodically evaluates 199 studies, offering insights into regional and temporal trends, and highlighting innovations in automation, safety systems, and sustainability. Additionally, it examines the interplay between advanced technologies and environmental goals, underscoring the importance of green practices and resource efficiency. Despite significant progress, challenges in cybersecurity, regulatory compliance, and legacy infrastructure integration persist. By categorizing literature into thematic domains and identifying critical research gaps, this study provides a comprehensive roadmap for future advancements in intelligent railway systems. Ultimately, it positions emerging technologies as pivotal to addressing contemporary demands and fostering a sustainable and adaptive global railway network.