Northern Railway’s Jammu Division will install a desktop simulator to train locomotive pilots in handling emergencies including brake failures, signal failures, dense fog, landslides and sudden obstructions on tracks, officials said.

The workplace-based training facility is intended to improve the technical skills, operational preparedness and decision-making abilities of loco pilots by exposing them to simulated real-world situations without the risks associated with live train operations. It will allow them to practise dealing with dense fog, heavy rain, landslides, signalling failures and other adverse conditions.

The simulator will provide hands-on training in signalling, braking techniques and locomotive operations. It will also recreate situations such as brake failure, overshooting and sudden obstructions on the track, enabling pilots to practise making quick and safe decisions during emergencies.

Officials said the facility would support repeated training without consuming the fuel and other resources required to operate a real locomotive. This is expected to make the programme safer, more economical and environmentally friendly, while improving the effectiveness of regular training, refresher courses and skill-development programmes for new and existing loco pilots.

The simulator will also help pilots identify operational shortcomings and work on improving their skills. The Jammu division has recently organised awareness programmes focused on the mental health and welfare of loco pilots, as part of its broader efforts to strengthen operational support.

Railway officials said improved training infrastructure would contribute to safer and more efficient train operations. The initiative is expected to enhance the confidence and preparedness of loco pilots and strengthen passenger safety as the division continues efforts to advance Indian Railways’ safety objectives.