Germany’s Deutsche Bahn (DB) is making significant strides in its international operations by sourcing loco pilots from India, tapping into the country’s rich pool of talent amidst a growing demand for train drivers back home. As DB expands its presence in India, the company aims to bolster its global projects while contributing to the burgeoning Indian metro system.
With a noticeable shortage of train drivers in Germany, DB’s strategy to recruit from India is a proactive move to ensure its operations run smoothly. CEO of DB International Operations (DB IO), highlighted the potential of Indian manpower, stating, “We want to use our Indian workforce across global projects.” This approach not only provides opportunities for Indian professionals but also enhances DB’s operational capacity worldwide. Approximately 100 employees from the Duhai region in Ghaziabad have undergone extensive upskilling for these global roles. This initiative reflects DB’s commitment to developing local talent, which is crucial for the successful operation of its projects. The company has recently celebrated a year of running India’s first Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), covering a 42 km stretch with a dedicated team of 600 staff members. The Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS, awarded to DB in July 2022, marks a significant milestone as the first instance where comprehensive operation and maintenance activities were assigned to a private entity. With the contract valued at over ₹100 million, DB is well-positioned to explore further opportunities in India’s metro services market. Officials confirmed, “India is a strategic market for us,” indicating a robust outlook for future collaborations.
Moreover, DB’s partnership with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) to explore joint business opportunities in urban mass transit signals a growing trend of public-private collaboration in India’s transport sector. The agreement focuses on system engineering, project management, and construction supervision, paving the way for enhanced urban mobility solutions. However, DB’s foray into India has not been without challenges. A recent minor derailment on the RRTS raised concerns, prompting a high-level inquiry from the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC). In response, officials assured stakeholders that such incidents are not uncommon in large-scale projects, emphasising that DB continues to excel in key performance indicators (KPIs). This expansion and collaboration bring a human element to the forefront, as local residents and potential loco pilots express optimism about job opportunities and skills development. “This is a chance for us to showcase our skills on an international platform,” said one aspiring loco pilot. The emotional weight of these opportunities cannot be understated, as many see this as a pathway to better livelihoods. As DB continues to navigate its Indian operations, the sustainability of its projects will be paramount. The incorporation of local talent not only fosters economic growth but also promotes a sense of community involvement in the development of urban transport solutions. With public transport being a cornerstone of sustainable development, DB’s initiatives are aligned with broader environmental goals, ultimately benefiting both the economy and the community.
