Indian Railways is establishing a dedicated Vande Bharat train maintenance and training hub at the Nishatpura Rail Coach Factory, near Bhopal Junction.
This ambitious project, costing approximately Rs 150 crore, is poised to profoundly strengthen the operational efficiency and technical expertise supporting the nation’s premier train sets. This strategic investment in Bhopal aligns seamlessly with the broader national agenda of fostering advanced, green, and efficient urban and transport ecosystems. The new facility will be seamlessly integrated into a comprehensive multidisciplinary training centre already present at Nishatpura. This integration is designed to ensure a holistic approach to skill development, dedicated to equipping railway staff with the necessary expertise across various critical aspects of Vande Bharat operations. The vision extends beyond mere maintenance; it aims to cultivate a cadre of highly trained professionals capable of managing the sophisticated technology and demanding operational protocols of these modern trains, thereby enhancing safety and reliability across the network.
This comprehensive maintenance and training facility is slated to become an essential centre for both the intricate upkeep and advanced operational management of Vande Bharat trains. Upon completion, the facility will possess the capacity to maintain approximately 10 Vande Bharat trains concurrently. A key highlight of the upcoming centre is its contemporary lab, specifically designed to focus on the nuances of Vande Bharat operations and maintenance. This dedicated lab aims to elevate Bhopal’s standing as a national training hotspot for all Vande Bharat staff, drawing professionals from across the country to acquire specialised skills. Scheduled to be operational next year, the Nishatpura facility is being equipped with a full suite of amenities to support the intensive training programmes. These include a modern hostel for trainees, a canteen, a dedicated administrative building, a well-stocked library, a state-of-the-art computer centre, a spacious auditorium for lectures and presentations, and a fully equipped medical room to ensure the well-being of the personnel. Nawal Agarwal, PRO Bhopal Division, confirmed that the tendering process for the project is nearing its conclusion, with work expected to commence shortly thereafter.
The training curriculum at this facility will be comprehensive, catering to a wide array of railway professionals crucial to Vande Bharat operations. Loco pilots, station masters, guards, and other essential staff will receive intensive instruction in technical operations, telecom systems, engineering principles, signal management, financial accounting, personnel management, stores maintenance, traffic management, and overarching railway systems. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that all personnel involved in Vande Bharat operations possess a holistic understanding of the train’s systems and the broader railway environment. The facility’s lab will be a cornerstone of this training, equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and sophisticated simulation systems. This cutting-edge technology will provide trainees with invaluable hands-on experience, allowing them to troubleshoot potential issues and practice emergency procedures in a controlled and safe environment. The intensive training on Vande Bharat operations, including rigorous safety protocols and emergency procedures, is paramount to upholding the highest standards of passenger security and service.
The establishment of this facility is a direct manifestation of Indian Railways’ overarching drive to modernise its fleet and significantly boost operational efficiency, setting a benchmark for future high-speed rail networks in India.
Also Read: Bhopal to Establish ₹150 Crore Vande Bharat Maintenance and Training Hub
