Future Perspective of Psychometric Assessment in Screening of Locomotive Drivers for High Speed Train Operation on Indian Railways

Train operation at higher speed necessitates attentiveness, alertness and ability to respond promptly with precision and promptness for taking prudent decisions under dynamic situation of train driving. Proficiency and competence of locomotive drivers, their acumen and expertise to formulate strategies for dealing with the varying situations associated with operation of trains involve manifestation of specific cognitive, psychomotor and behavioural abilities, in absence of which their reliability becomes safety critical. Deployment of proficient drivers possessing appropriate attribute and apposite aptitude can be ensured through an efficient psychometric assessment and the process of assessment becomes crucial in minimizing safety critical risk factors and ensuring efficiency and safety in high speed train operation.