High-speed rail systems stood out as some of the most intricate megastructures globally, not only ensuring efficient mobility but also fostering economic growth and an improved quality of life for residents. The successful implementation and operation of these projects were pivotal for realizing their positive impact.

With ongoing efforts to establish new high-speed rail links in various parts of Asia, including India, it was imperative to integrate the lessons learned from past experiences. Japan, a global pioneer in constructing and operating high-speed rail systems, boasted a successful track record. In light of these considerations, a field trip and workshop on 19–20 February 2024 facilitated on-the-ground knowledge exchange between Japanese and Indian officials. The objective was to contribute valuable insights to the construction of high-speed rail in India.

The knowledge-sharing workshop delved into the observations made during the on-site visit to the Salasar Hapur Factory, providing a firsthand assessment of steel bridge construction processes.

The inaugural session featured opening remarks by distinguished representatives from key stakeholders—National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited, Japan International Cooperation Agency India Office, and Japan Association of Railway Technical Service. The sessions set the tone for the comprehensive discussions that unfolded during the course of the event.

The workshop included three main sessions, each designed to delve into specific aspects of high-speed rail construction. The first session, “Global Perspectives – Past Factory Insights Meet Present Challenges,” included two expert presentations addressing key considerations for quality control based on past and upcoming plant visits. A subsequent Q&A session allowed participants to engage directly with the experts, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas.

The second session, “Perspective from Japan – Challenges and Methods for Steel Bridges Quality Construction,” featured expert presentations discussing the fabrication and maintenance of steel bridges. This session provided valuable insights into the Japanese approach to ensuring the quality and durability of high-speed rail infrastructure. A Q&A session was included.

The third session, “Perspective from India: Project Experiences in MAHSR,” shed light on the technological transfer aspect of high-speed rail projects. It consisted of sub-sessions of short presentations, discussions among the speakers, and discussions with participants.

The closing session was a discussion forum that engaged participants in reflecting on the insights gained from the previous sessions. This interactive session set the stage for a formal wrap-up, featuring closing remarks delivered by a representative from the Asian Development Bank Institute.