Road Learning

Road Learning:

Road learning training is given to guards before working afresh on a new section to make themselves conversant with signal locations and other operating conditions. Methods and rules for providing road learning training are explained as under.

Road learning training is very important for the running staff (Loco pilots and Guards). This training is essential before a guard is booked to work the train independently in section. Road learning is the transformation of classroom knowledge into practical knowledge. During the road learning period, new guards travel in the section on brake van/ SLR along with a senior guard and make themselves aware of the following aspects of train working.

• Locations of all signals at each station and midsection.
• The idea of visibility of all signals from brake van.
• Intermediate block signaling in a section and areas where backing is not permitted.
• Automatic and semi-automatic signals.
• Location of spring-loaded points in a section.
• The general idea of gradients of the section (ruling gradient, momentum gradient, and pusher gradient) and understanding to read the grade indicators.
• Sidings at various places in a section where goods train are placed or removed.
• Locations of Permanent speed restrictions in a section.
• Maximum load allowed (in terms of vehicle length and tonnage) in a section with single and multiple locomotives.
• Banking section where the banker is provided to avoid stalling of the train.
• Maximum permissible speed / booked speed of the train in a section and speed on loop lines.
• The idea of the number of roads, a capacity of loop lines at various stations and proper berthing place.
• The idea of running time of a section.
  Restrictions due to gradients, not to stop the good trains at certain signals.
• Stations where technical assistance and passenger amenities available.