Sabarmati Depot Gets 620-Metre Retractable OHE System For Safer Train Maintenance

The Sabarmati Integrated Coaching Depot (SBT) in Ahmedabad has become the first facility in Western Railway to introduce an advanced Retractable Overhead Equipment (OHE) system, aimed at improving the safety of maintenance staff and enhancing operational efficiency.

The system, known as the Retractable Rigid Overhead Conductor System (RRCS), has been installed across a total length of 620 metres at the Sabarmati depot.

The motor-operated, pivot-mounted overhead conductor has been specifically designed for electrified railway coaching depots, locomotive sheds and loading sidings. It supplies traction power directly to electric locomotives while allowing the conductor rail to be mechanically retracted when required.

Improves safety during rooftop maintenance

One of the key advantages of the retractable OHE system is improved safety for maintenance personnel working on train rooftops.

The OHE can be de-energised and isolated, allowing staff to safely carry out maintenance work on rooftop equipment such as air-conditioning units and pantographs. The system also provides an earthing arrangement to minimise the risk of electric shock and short circuits during maintenance.

Reduces dependence on diesel shunting

The new system is also expected to reduce the need for diesel locomotives for shunting operations within the depot.

With electric power available on the maintenance lines, coaches can be moved using electric traction, reducing diesel consumption, emissions, smoke and noise inside the depot premises.

Faster maintenance and turnaround

The electrified maintenance infrastructure is expected to reduce turnaround time by allowing trains to move directly to maintenance lines. This can help coaches return to service more quickly and improve overall operational efficiency.

The retractable design also provides greater flexibility inside the depot. The overhead conductor can be moved aside when required, allowing maintenance and stabling activities to be carried out without unnecessarily affecting adjoining railway lines.

Where else is the technology used?

While Sabarmati is the first installation of this system in Western Railway, similar retractable OHE arrangements are being used at selected railway facilities across the country, particularly for maintenance of premium electric trainsets and electric rolling stock.

Such installations include coaching depots in Delhi, Bengaluru, Tughlakabad, Visakhapatnam and Howrah, where the technology is being used to facilitate safer rooftop maintenance and modernise depot infrastructure.

The installation at Sabarmati is expected to strengthen staff safety, environmental sustainability and operational efficiency, supporting faster and safer maintenance of electric train services.