For the T-2 Package (237 km between Vapi and Vadodara), which is part of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high speed rail corridor (MAHSR), the training of Indian engineers and work leaders has begun.
According to National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited’s (NHSRCL) official statement, only trained and certified engineers and work leaders are expected to be present on the job site for track construction work.
This will also help in the ‘Transfer of Technology’ of the Japanese HSR track system.
The first HSR project in India will utilise the ballast-free Slab Track system (often referred to as J Slab track system) used in the Japanese Shinkansen. Japanese experts in pertinent domains will deliver the training on behalf of JARTS, a non-profit organisation in Japan that JICA (the project’s financing source) has recommended.
It is notable that there will be 15 different courses covering all aspects of Track work, which includes, training for Site Managers, Track Slab Manufacturing, RC Track Bed construction, Reference Pin survey and data analysis, Slab Track installation, CAM installation, Rail weld finishing, Enclosed Arc welding of rails and Turnout installation.
Nearly 1000 engineers/work leaders/technicians are planned to be trained. A training facility with 3 (three) trail lines, has been specially created at Surat Depot for this.
It is also pertinent to note that the Japanese track system is unique in the world and requires a very high level of skill to lay it.
The track is the most important component of the HSR system and needs to be laid to a very high degree of accuracy.
The Indian engineers, supervisors, and technicians will receive extensive training from 20 Japanese professionals, who will also certify their abilities.