SAIT's Students Visit to Western Railway Rolling Stock Workshop, Dahod Gujarat

The world of railways, with its intricate machinery and vast network, has always been a subject of fascination for many. For the students of Sri Aurobindo Institute of Technology (SAIT), this fascination turned into a reality on 6th October 2023.

An enlightening journey was embarked upon, leading them to the Western Railway Rolling Stock Workshop situated in the heart of Dahod, Gujarat. This technical visit, meticulously organized and planned, was not just another field trip; it was an opportunity for the students to delve deep into the world of locomotives, railway coaches, and the intricate components that ensure their seamless operation.

Objective Behind the Excursion

Every educational institution aims to provide its students with a holistic learning experience, blending theoretical knowledge with practical exposures. The primary goal behind this excursion was precisely that.
The RGPV University syllabus, catering to Civil, Mechanical, and Electrical Engineering students, places significant emphasis on understanding the nuances of maintenance, manufacturing processes, and the intricacies of transmission lines.

However, reading about these process in textbooks and witnessing them in action are two vastly different experiences.
This visit was organized to provide students with the latter, allowing them to witness these processes firsthand and comprehend the complexities and marvels of the railway industry.

A Day at the Workshop

As the clock struck 1:00 PM, the gates of the Western Railway Rolling Stock Workshop opened to welcome a group of 24 eager students, accompanied by 4 dedicated faculty members from SAIT - Mr. Shantanu Mehta, Mr. Sanjay Upadhyay, Mr. Nitin Gahodiya, and Ms. Aditi Rajput. Their enthusiasm was palpable, and the air was thick with anticipation.

The workshop, with its vast expanse and state-of-the-art machinery, was a sight to behold. But what made the experience truly enriching was the guidance provided by the workshop's senior officials. Mr. Vinod Parmar, the Senior Superintendent Officer, and Mr. Mukesh Bhatkare, the Senior Instructor, alongside their proficient team, took it upon themselves to ensure that the students gained maximum knowledge from this visit.

The day was structured to provide a comprehensive overview of the various processes involved in the manufacturing and maintenance of locomotive components. 

Students were introduced to the intricate process of armature winding of motors, a procedure that requires precision and expertise. They were also enlightened about the terminology used in railway bogies, which, though might seem trivial, plays a crucial role in the smooth operation of trains.

The lathe operation, which involved the turning of wheels, was another highlight of the visit. Witnessing a chunk of metal being transformed into a perfectly shaped wheel was nothing short of mesmerizing. The students also got an opportunity to understand the structure and significance of the chassis of a bogie, a component that forms the backbone of any train.

A Deeper Dive into the Workshop's Offerings

Beyond the machinery and the processes, the students were introduced to the human element of the railway industry. The instructors, with their vast experience and deep knowledge, played a pivotal role in making this visit truly memorable.

Their passion for their work and their eagerness to impart knowledge was evident in every explanation, every demonstration, and every answer that provided to the students' myriad questions.

Mr. Vinod Parmar and Mr. Mukesh Bhatkare, along with their team, ensured that no stone was left unturned. They delved deep into the intricacies of the railway industry, explaining not just the how, but also the why behind each process.

Why is the armature winding of motors so crucial? Why is the terminology used on railway bogies standardized? Why are regular maintenance checks non-negotiable? These were just some of the questions that were addressed during the visit.

Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice

One of the primary objective of this excursion was to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. And this objective was achieved, and how! The students, who had spent hours poring over textbooks, were now seeing their knowledge come to life. The lathe operation, the armature winding, the maintenance checks - everything they had studied was now right in front of them in action.

This real-world exposure is invaluable. It not only reinforces classroom learning but also provides students with a broader perspective. It helps them understand the larger picture, the end-to-end process, and the interdependencies between different components.

It also instills in them a sense of respect for the professionals who work behind the scenes, ensuring that our railways run smoothly.

The Takeaway

As the day progressed, it became evident that this excursion was more than just imparting knowledge, it's about instilling a sense of wonder and respect for the marvels of engineering. By the time the clock neared 4:30PM, marking the end of the visit, the students had gained a wealth of knowledge. 

In conclusion, the visit to the Western Railway Rolling Stock Workshop was not just an educational excursion; it was a testament to SAIT's unwavering commitment to providing its students with unparalleled learning experience.

The institute, with its focus on holistic education, ensures that its students are well-equipped to face the challenges of the real world.

In Gratitude

Sri Aurobindo Institute of Technology extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Western Railway Rolling Stock Workshop team for their hospitality and for providing the students with this invaluable learning opportunity.
The insights gained from the visit will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the students' future endeavors.

A special word of appreciation is also due for the faculty members who accompanied the students. Their guidance and support ensured that the students made the most of this opportunity.

Looking Ahead

The visit to Dahod was not just a day in the lift of a SAIT student; it was a day that will be etched in their memories for years to come. A day that reinforced the institute's ethos of 'Learning Beyond the Classroom.'