Northern Railway Launches Training Programme to Enhance Safety and Reliability of Train Operations
Three-Day Capacity Building Programme for Traction Power Controllers Covers SCADA, Emergency Handling and Field Training
Northern Railway has launched a structured Capacity Building Programme for Traction Power Controllers (TPCs) to enhance technical expertise, operational competence and safety in electric train operations. The initiative, undertaken by the Electrical Department of Northern Railway, aims to improve the management of traction power supply, strengthen coordination among railway personnel and ensure greater reliability of train services.
The first batch of the three-day programme was conducted from October 12 to 14, 2026, at the Electric Training Centre in Ghaziabad. Northern Railway has planned six batches of the programme by the end of November 2026, covering all six divisions of the zone.
The inaugural batch comprised 14 participants representing Northern Railway’s six divisions: Jammu, Ferozepur, Ambala, Delhi, Moradabad and Lucknow. The programme combined classroom instruction, simulator-based exercises and field visits to provide participants with practical knowledge of traction power management and emergency response procedures.
Focus on Traction Power Management and Safety
Traction Power Controllers play a vital role in the safe and efficient operation of trains running on electric traction. They monitor and control the 25 kV traction power supply system, coordinate with field personnel and operating control, and manage power interruptions and other operational disruptions.
Their responsibilities require timely decision-making, technical proficiency and effective coordination, particularly during emergencies that may affect train movements. The capacity-building initiative is designed to strengthen these capabilities through structured training and practical exposure to railway electrical infrastructure.
The programme also aims to improve participants’ understanding of traction power control systems, equipment protection arrangements and standard operating procedures, helping them respond more effectively to routine operational requirements and unforeseen situations.
Three-Day Training Programme Combines Theory and Practice
The first day of training focused on the roles and responsibilities of TPCs, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, traction substation protection and coordination with field staff and operating control.
Participants were introduced to the technical and operational aspects of traction power management, with emphasis on maintaining a reliable power supply and ensuring safe working practices.
The second day was dedicated to hands-on exercises using the SCADA training simulator. The simulator enabled participants to practise operational responses and emergency-handling procedures in a controlled environment. Such exercises help trainees understand system behaviour, assess different operating situations and develop confidence in making decisions under pressure.
On the third day, participants received practical field training at the 25 kV Traction Substation at Chanakyapuri. The visit provided exposure to traction power equipment, operational procedures and protection arrangements used in the railway electrical system.
The programme also included field visits to SCADA facilities and the Remote Control Centre (RCC) in Delhi Division. These visits helped participants connect classroom learning with actual operating practices and understand how traction power control functions are coordinated in the field.
Assessment and Certification
The three-day programme concluded with a knowledge assessment to evaluate participants’ understanding of the subjects covered during the training. Feedback was also collected from participants to assess the effectiveness of the programme and identify areas for further improvement.
Certificates were distributed to participants upon completion of the training.
Northern Railway’s decision to organise six batches by the end of November reflects its focus on extending structured technical training to personnel across all six divisions. The programme is intended to create a more consistent level of operational knowledge and preparedness among TPCs throughout the zone.
Strengthening Reliable Electric Train Operations
With the expansion and increasing use of electrified railway infrastructure, effective management of traction power supply remains essential for safe and dependable train operations. Any disruption in the electrical supply can affect train movements, making efficient control, timely communication and coordinated emergency response critical.
Through this capacity-building initiative, Northern Railway aims to strengthen staff skills, improve coordination between control centres and field personnel, and enhance the ability of traction power controllers to manage operational challenges.
The programme represents a continuing effort by Northern Railway’s Electrical Department to build technical competence and reinforce safety practices, supporting the broader objective of safer, more reliable and efficient train operations across the Northern Railway network.
