Mumbai Local Train Maintenance Goes High-Tech with VR Training System

Mumbai, 10th February 2025: Indian Railways (IR) recently marked the centenary of its first electric train journey between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Kurla, which took place on February 3, 1925. Coinciding with this milestone, the century-old Kurla car shed is introducing Virtual Reality (VR) technology to enhance staff training.

For the first time, IR is integrating VR-based training to teach railway staff how to repair train coaches. Currently, in the testing phase, the system is expected to be fully operational by the end of the month. A beta version is also being showcased at an exhibition at CSMT to commemorate the centenary.

Established in 1925, the Kurla car shed, situated between Kurla and Vidyavihar stations, employs around 500-600 workers across three shifts to maintain 70-75 rakes of Mumbai’s local trains. Depending on operational requirements, rakes undergo servicing at intervals ranging from three days to 18 months. Plans have also been approved to expand the shed’s capacity to accommodate more rakes.

The VR training system, acquired in January, has been installed in a dedicated lab at the car shed. It comprises a large screen, a VR headset, a handheld controller, gloves, and other essential accessories. Currently, railway engineers are programming the system with comprehensive details about train components. While information on bogies, wheels, and springs has already been incorporated, additional details on seats, doors, windows, lights, fans, roofs, and pantographs will be added soon.

“We are refining the VR module to train staff in repairing every component of a local train, from the smallest parts to the largest equipment,” an official from the lab stated.

Meanwhile, engineers and VR vendors were seen testing various train components on a large screen, including fasteners, bolts, screws, brake pads, oil levels, and wheel profiles. Sensitivity adjustments were also being made to the control panel to ensure ease of use for trainees.

“The system has significant potential for customization, allowing improvements to the training experience and graphic interface,” said a Central Railway (CR) official. The VR module is expected to be finalized within the next 10-15 days. Once completed, it will provide in-depth guidance on repairing different train components, making hands-on work more efficient.

Additionally, an old barrack at the car shed is being transformed into a training centre featuring four classrooms, each capable of accommodating 40-60 trainees. The VR-based training system will be installed there once testing is complete. If successful, the model could be replicated in other car sheds and maintenance depots.

CSMT had earlier introduced a more advanced VR-based training system for motormen in July 2024. Unlike the Kurla module, which primarily focuses on train coach maintenance, the CSMT VR headset offers a fully detailed simulation of a motorman’s cabin, including buttons, levers, platforms, and railway tracks. The motormen training module, available in multiple languages, includes ten training segments with step-by-step instructions, requiring trainees to make precise movements and adjustments.

“Training on this system feels incredibly realistic, incorporating nearly every aspect of a moving train,” a motorman shared. However, he noted that new users often struggle with the controls initially and must repeat actions until they gain proficiency. The training, which consists of ten modules, takes about an hour for beginners, while experienced trainees complete it in 30-35 minutes. Since its introduction, approximately 860 motormen have undergone training, with 6-8 completing the session daily.

In addition to these advancements, CR is developing a similar VR-based training system for locomotive repairs in long-distance trains. Trials for this system are already underway.

Through these initiatives, Indian Railways is modernizing its training methodologies, enhancing efficiency, and improving the maintenance of Mumbai’s extensive local train network.