This article presents a comprehensive analysis of the activities of the Ural Territorial Administration of the Federal Agency for Railway Transport (Roszheldor) over 20 years of operation. It examines the administration’s key functions, including the provision of public services to infrastructure owners, carriers, and users of rail transport services on the Sverdlovsk (operational length: 7,152 km, 419 crossing points) and South Ural (operational length: 4,545 km, 247 crossing points) railways.

The article also highlights the key areas of work of two specialized departments: infrastructure and transport safety. The publication presents statistical data on services rendered, including the serial accounting of over 648,000 rolling stock units, the commissioning of over 170 km of public and over 550 km of private tracks, and the inspection of over 500 railway stations.

The publication also discloses the results of collaboration with major regional enterprises (ZapSibNeftekhim LLC, Metafrax PJSC, Ural Locomotives LLC, and Cemix LLC). Current infrastructure projects are described, including the Northern Railway Bypass of Perm and the Northern Latitudinal Railway (707 km). Special attention is paid to collaboration with educational institutions, in particular, the Ural State Transport University.

This article examines the history of railway education in Russia. The stages of its evolution are identified based on the development of railways. Strategic planning documents reflecting the development of railway education in the country are reviewed. The main goals and objectives of the system for training specialists in the transport industry and retraining management teams are examined.

Historical sources, as well as current legislation related to the development of education and training, are analyzed. In identifying these stages, a direct connection with the stages of railway development is identified. Each new stage was accompanied by the launch of new educational institutions and the improvement of the educational process. The path from the Institute of Water and Land Communications to the Institutes of Railway Transport is traced.

The current stage of development includes the implementation of digital technologies, artificial intelligence capabilities, and the use of new materials and designs. Currently, the railway education system in Russia is represented by nine university complexes, including branches.

The development of education is reflected in important government documents. Its main goals, objectives, and areas are defined in the Transport Strategy. While setting the direction for the development of transport education, the Transport Strategy neglected to address its sectoral areas. To fill this gap, it is proposed to clarify specific issues of sectoral education within the Transport Strategy it self or in other strategic planning documents for the development of transport sectors.

The relevance is due to the attention of modern society to the problems of inclusive education. Educational inclusion asserts equal treatment for all people, creates the necessary conditions for people with special educational needs, is considered as the most important mechanism of social inclusion and is recognized by the world community as a component of humanism.

One of the objectives of regional education is to develop inclusive vocational education for young people and children with disabilities. The regional education system implements inclusion technologies and creates organizational and pedagogical conditions for children with disabilities and young people with disabilities to receive secondary vocational education in the Novosibirsk region.

The main research methods are collection and analysis of statistical data, experiment, pedagogical observation.

The results of the organization of educational inclusion in the region through the prism of the activities of the basic professional educational organization of the Novosibirsk region (hereinafter BPOE) allow us to determine effective mechanisms for the formation of an accessible educational environment, as well as vectors for the development of social inclusion. The implementation of a professional mentoring model for young professionals working with families raising children with disabilities and HIA, and people with disabilities and HIA, developed by the staff  of the Novosibirsk Region Educational and Educational Institution, will ensure not only organizational and methodological support for inclusive education, but also a solution to the safety of personnel working with children with disabilities and HIA and their parents. development of their professional competencies and psychological readiness for inclusion.

The article gives an overview of the theoretical justification of gamification of teaching literature, with the involvement of foreign experience from the monograph by M.V. Clarin “Innovative models of training: Research on world experience” and the works of domestic teachers. And they also consider the issues of game learning technologies at colleges in Federal Agency for Railway Transport as an opportunity to increase the motivation of students to study literature. As well as the introduction of a professional component through gamification into training according to the requirements of the Federal State Educational Institution of Vocational Education on the examples of teaching literature at the Ozherelevsky Railway College — a branch of the Federal State Budgetary Institution of Higher Education “St. Petersburg State University of Railways of Emperor Alexander I” in Kashira. Activities such as business games, organizational and activity games (ODI), social gaming activities in non-standard lessons, quests and discussions. All these forms of work in literature lessons use the works of Russian authors, where there is a chronotope of the railway or other references in the text to railway subjects. This serves as a good base for career guidance for college students. Theatrical activities are particularly worth highlighting. In the near future, UMTS ZhDT will publish a collection of plays “From XIX to XXI by Rail”, which will make it easier for college theater groups to choose material for their work. One of these plays, Fedorov’s vaudeville, the first work of Russian literature about the railway, was described in a binary lesson by a teacher and a university intern.

The paper examines the problems and prospects of railway transport development in the context of globalization and rapid economic growth. Special attention is paid to improving the efficiency of the organization of traffic flows and modernization of infrastructure. The current situation is analyzed, including a decrease in freight traffic and congestion on railway tracks.

The article considers the possibility of separating the movement of freight and passenger trains as a promising solution that will increase capacity, speed up transportation and improve safety. Based on the analysis of foreign experience, in particular China, and statistical data on Russia for the period from 2018 to 2024, the necessity of introducing high-speed highways for passenger trains is substantiated. Examples of successful projects and their impact on the economy are given. Special attention is paid to the program for the development of high-speed and high-speed rail services in Russia until 2030. The current situation on the Moscow – St. Petersburg line is being considered, where freight trains are forced to take roundabouts due to the high intensity of passenger traffic.

It is proposed to build specialized high-speed tracks for passenger trains separately from freight trains, which will significantly shorten delivery times and reduce tariff s. In conclusion, it is emphasized that the successful implementation of the freight and passenger train separation project can be an important step in the development of Russian railway transport, increasing its competitiveness and efficiency.

The prospects for the development of the Northern Sea Route in the context of Western sanctions are described in detail, the need to redirect cargo flows from rail to sea transport is substantiated, and the possibilities for the economic development of Kamchatka Krai due to the opening of traffic along the Northern Sea Route are demonstrated. The study is of an overview nature. The goal is to find opportunities for the development of the Northern Sea Route in the context of Western sanctions, as well as to draw attention to the problems of the economy of Kamchatka Krai and to study the role of the Northern Sea Route in solving these problems. The results of the study were the analysis of the volume of cargo flows by main modes of transport and the advantages of the Northern Sea Route, an assessment of cargo turnover along this route, an analysis of the cargo turnover of the largest ports of the Russian Federation, an assessment of the potential of Kamchatka Krai. This study draws attention to the need to develop the Northern Sea Route, further study its aspects, draw attention to the economic potential of the Kamchatka Territory and the possibilities for its development, provided that traffic along the Northern Sea Route is opened. For this purpose, a review of scientific articles and statistical data, an analysis of the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of the routes were used.

The article is devoted to the study of the dynamics of changes in exports in the market of temperature-sensitive cargoes in the period from 2019 to 2023, the impact of the organization of their transportation on the development of agro-industrial complex in modern conditions.

Materials of open sources of the Internet, methods of system analysis and statistics were used.

On the basis of the analysis of statistical and reporting data of export of agro-industrial complex products, the main positions of supplied products, the countries-importers of Russian foodstuff s and the types of rolling stock of railway transport used in the supply chains were identified. The ways to increase transportation volumes through the use of advanced technologies are proposed.

The main types of export products of the agro-industrial complex are: cereals, fish and seafood, fats and oils of animal or vegetable origin, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, meat and edible meat by-products. The main importing countries of Russian thermosensitive cargo from the Russian Federation in the period under review from 2019 to 2023 are China, Turkey, Kazakhstan, Middle East and African countries. To ensure the quality of supplied temperature-sensitive cargoes and their nutritional value, it is necessary to use specialized rolling stock that preserves or maintains the temperature mode of transportation along the entire route.

This paper examines promising areas for the development of braking systems for high-speed trains using eddy current braking. The relevance of the study is driven by increasing rail speeds and the need to improve the safety, energy efficiency, and reliability of braking systems. Eddy current braking, based on electromagnetic induction, is a promising alternative to traditional friction and rheostatic systems, as it reduces wear on mechanical components and improves braking smoothness.

The research methods are based on a literature review of modern experimental studies on the use of various types of braking systems in high-speed transport. Particular attention is paid to combined systems combining eddy current braking with other technologies.

The results demonstrate the need to modernize existing braking systems to meet modern safety and energy conservation requirements. Key development areas are identified, including optimization of eddy current brake design, integration of energy recovery systems, and the use of new materials to improve efficiency.

The practical significance of this research lies in its proposal of specific solutions for the implementation of eddy current brakes on high-speed rolling stock. Implementation of these developments will improve rolling stock reliability, reduce operating costs, and ensure compliance with international safety standards. The results can be used in the design of new rail transport models.

In the context of increasing intensity of rail transportation and the need to improve the efficiency of infrastructure operation, the task of ensuring high-quality and uniform compaction of the ballast layer during scheduled preventive track alignment is becoming especially urgent. Analysis of existing technical solutions showed that the currently used cyclic and continuous-cyclic track alignment and tamping machines have a number of significant limitations associated with the destruction of sleepers, non-uniform distribution of ballast density and low speed of operations. In this regard, there is a growing interest in the use of primary track alignment machines (PRSM), which have a different design of the vibratory working element, and in particular, the ability to implement continuous horizontal compaction of crushed stone from the ends of the sleepers. This work is aimed at improving the technological efficiency of PRSM machines by upgrading the design of the main vibratory plate. The aim of the study was to design and justify the design of a vibratory plate with improved geometric characteristics and an adaptive control system for the angle of rotation of the ballast splitter, ensuring stable compaction quality in various operating conditions. To achieve the set goal, the methods of graphic-analytical modeling in the SolidWorks automated design system, numerical calculation of the strength characteristics of the design elements, as well as analytical modeling of the ballast layer compaction parameters using a specially developed software package in the Delphi-7 environment were used. Based on the calculations obtained, a digital 3D model of a vibratory plate with a new kinematic suspension scheme and controlled hydraulic elements was created. The results of the graphic-analytical analysis showed that the modernized design ensures the achievement of a specified relative ballast settlement in the range of 0.15–0.2, while the safety factor for the yield strength is 2.18, which indicates high reliability of the design. The practical significance of the work lies in the possibility of introducing the developed solutions into the design of serial MPV machines, which will significantly improve the uniformity of ballast layer compaction, minimize the destruction of sleepers and increase the productivity of track alignment operations at the infrastructure facilities of JSC Russian Railways. The novelty of the study lies in the systemic integration of the results of analytical, numerical and CAD calculations aimed at creating an adaptive vibration working element for continuous compaction of ballast during scheduled preventive alignment of the track.

The importance of short-distance interregional passenger rail service as a key element of interaction between regions, allowing residents to travel quickly and conveniently for work and tourism, is considered. The importance of these routes for these purposes is emphasized using the example of the St. Petersburg – Pskov and St. Petersburg – Veliky Novgorod routes. St. Petersburg acts as an economic center, which helps attract people from neighboring regions. The existing operating costs on these routes are identified and attention is focused on the need to optimize them to improve the quality of transportation. Based on the results of the grant research, potential solutions are discussed that can improve the organization of passenger transportation and meet the growing demand for mobility in this interregional context. The goal is to study the possibilities of optimizing short-distance interregional passenger rail service on the St. Petersburg – Pskov and St. Petersburg – Veliky Novgorod routes for the quality of transportation and taking into account the needs of residents and tourists. Statistical data on passenger transportation were used, an analysis of operating costs, routes with the participation of passengers and local authorities was performed. The methods of comparative analysis are included to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the existing system. The results of the study: the key operating costs are identified and recommendations for their optimization are proposed. The ways to increase the frequency and comfort of trips, as well as opportunities for improving the integration of interregional transportation with other modes of transport are identified. It is expected that the proposed measures will improve the quality of passenger service and increase demand for routes.

Analysis of the organization of passenger traffic on the St. Petersburg – Pskov and St. Petersburg – Veliky Novgorod lines revealed the presence of long unproductive downtime of rolling stock, and a statistical study of the passenger flow of Lastochka trains on the Novgorod direction made it possible to determine their occupancy level as quite low. To optimize the organization of passenger traffic and passenger flow on the considered routes, it is proposed: 1) organization of a combined shuttle route on the St. Petersburg – Pskov and St. Petersburg – Veliky Novgorod lines; 2) extension of the St. Petersburg – Pskov direction for a connecting stop in Veliky Novgorod.

Using the example of the Khabarovsk Technical Railway School, the article reveals the content of the educational process in this type of educational institutions of tsarist Russia. The authors draw attention to the high prestige of the teacher in the school, who was equated with a class official in the public service. Information is given about what subjects were taught at the school and to what extent. Attention is paid to how the teaching system at the school contributed to solving the problem of the low initial level of applicants to it. The authors not only note the low dropout rate of students from the educational institution, but also find a clear explanation for this. The practical orientation of the training of students is noted, which allows them to implement the knowledge and skills gained in their further work after graduation.

The Ryazan branch of St. Petersburg State University of Railways of Emperor Alexander I now is celebrating 105 years since its foundation. Based on more than a century of history, it is time to summarize the team work of teachers and students, enjoy the successes and express gratitude to the people who are the most valuable capital. This article provides the main achievements and areas of work, lists the names of teachers who made a contribution to the development of the branch and students — the winners of various Olympiads, competitions.

The article talks about the importance of social partnership. It is noted especially that interaction with partners contributes to the creation of a high-quality educational environment, the development of new programs and initiatives, as well as the integration of students into the professional sphere.

The article focuses on the positive impact of social partnership on the educational process and future successes of students, as well as the importance of further cooperation for the sustainable development of the Ryazan branch.

At the end of the article, the importance of the anniversary is emphasized as a moment to strengthen the traditions of the Ryazan branch and inspire new generations to achieve high results in education and profession.

This publication is dedicated to the 95th anniversary of the Petrozavodsk branch of PGUPS. It traces its path from its founding in 1930 as the Lodeynoye Pole Technical School of Railway Transport to its current status as one of the leading educational institutions in the Republic of Karelia. Key stages in the educational institution’s development are described in detail, including its work during the Great Patriotic War, its relocation to Petrozavodsk in 1959, and subsequent transformations and achievements. Particular attention is paid to the branch’s current status: its mission, facilities, highly qualified faculty, and its success in industry educational institution rankings. The branch’s contribution to the training of over 20,000 specialists for the railway industry is highlighted, many of whom have become outstanding managers and professionals. Educational and developmental activities aimed at preserving traditions and fostering a cohesive team are also covered. Conclusions were made that the combination of fidelity to historical traditions and the active implementation of innovative technologies ensures the sustainable leadership of the branch in the system of secondary vocational education in Russia.

In 2025, Irkutsk State Transport University will celebrate its 50th anniversary. Today, IrGUPS is a major scientific and educational center with a network of branches in four constituent entities of the Russian Federation, as well as abroad.

Over the years, the university has significantly expanded its training offerings, so that today it trains qualified personnel for virtually all sectors of the economy. The university’s scientific research is widely used by enterprises in the real sector of the economy and is implemented in major projects at the regional and federal level.

Over the next decade, the university faces a number of important strategic objectives. These include increasing its status and recognition in the global scientific and educational process, as well as ensuring leadership in the development of frontier digital twin technologies for ground transportation infrastructure.