Frontend repo : https://github.com/sandalu-umayanga/3yp-railLynk-front

Deployed Frontend Domain : https://main.dc21kqnkqpsk8.amplifyapp.com/

🚆 RailLynk – Smart Ticketing and Train Tracking System

RailLynk is an innovative digital solution designed to modernize the Sri Lankan railway system by introducing a smart, secure, and efficient way to manage ticketing and train tracking. It includes a card-based tap-in/tap-out ticketing system, real-time train monitoring, role-based dashboards, and secure data handling.

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🔷 Project Overview

RailLynk replaces outdated manual railway operations with a fully digital, user-friendly, and scalable system. It is designed with inclusivity in mind, ensuring even non-tech-savvy users can navigate the platform using familiar tools like smart cards.

Core Highlights:

• Tap-in/Tap-out smart card ticketing.
• Real-time train tracking with animated visualizations.
• Role-specific dashboards for Admins, Station Managers, Drivers, and Passengers.
• GPS-based location updates and accident alerts.
• Secure backend with JWT and RBAC.

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🔧 Technologies Used

Frontend

• Framework: React
• Libraries: Leaflet (for maps), Axios, React Router
• Security: Protected Routes, JWT Token Validation, Role-Based Access

Backend

• Framework: Django (REST API)
• Database: PostgreSQL
• Security: JWT Authentication, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)

Hardware

• Microcontroller: ESP32 (low-cost, highly capable)
• Connectivity: GPS Module + GSM/4G modules

DevOps

• CI/CD: GitHub Actions
• Deployment: AWS Amplify (Frontend), Choreo/AWS EC2 (Backend)

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🎭 Role-Based Features

Admin

• Register passengers and stations.
• Full access to system management.

Station Manager

• Register passengers and drivers.
• Manage recharges, ticket issuance, and schedules.

Passenger

• Tap-in/out using smart card.
• View transaction history, travel logs, and recharge balance.

Driver

• Send location updates.
• Notify about delays, landslides, or accidents.

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🔐 Security Measures

Frontend

• Protected routes via React Router.
• JWT token validation before accessing sensitive pages.

Backend

• JWT token authentication.
• Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) for all endpoints.

Card Security

• Card data is encrypted using custom encryption methods to prevent duplication and tampering.

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🗺️ Real-Time Train Tracking

• Periodic polling from ESP32 devices to fetch GPS location.
• Animated movement on map using Leaflet.
• Stop durations and ETA visible to passengers and stations.
• Offline fallback: last known location + schedule estimation.

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🧩 System Architecture

• Component-based frontend with separate panels for each role.
• REST API backend for data handling and control.
• Microservices for train location updates, notifications, and card transactions.

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✅ Testing & Validation

• Frontend Validation: Form validations with error handling.
• CI/CD: GitHub Actions test every pull request.
• Preview Deployments: AWS Amplify preview builds for all branches.

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🚧 Challenges and Solutions

Challenge	Solution
No WebSocket support	Used periodic polling with mobile API
Internet/GPS instability	Buffer + fallback mode in ESP32
Multiple roles with different access	JWT + RBAC
Integration with old infrastructure	Designed for parallel operation
Elderly user inclusion	Physical smart card recharge and usage
Hardware cost	Used ESP32 instead of expensive boards
Card duplication risk	Encrypted card data

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📎 CAD Design and Prototyping

Our smart gate hardware is currently being 3D printed using custom CAD designs. These will be integrated with the ESP32 and card reader system.