Indian Railway Loco pilots are facing issues with inadequate rest periods, continuous night duties, and extended working hours, leading to mental fatigue and safety concerns. Despite court rulings in their favor, the Railways has been reluctant to implement changes to ensure the well-being of the drivers.
The Railway Board’s decision to assign four consecutive night duties goes against recommendations for limiting such shifts to two, putting drivers at risk of operational lapses. Additionally, the absence of a toilet in the locomotive poses a serious discomfort for the pilots.
Loco pilots are demanding 30 consecutive hours of rest after 16 hours of headquarters rest, as stipulated by the court ruling. They are also seeking to limit working hours to 10 hours at a stretch, as agreed upon in 1973.
The union has brought these concerns to the attention of authorities, including the Regional Labour Commissioner and the Karnataka High Court, urging them to take action to ensure the safety and well-being of the loco pilots.