Loco pilots of Indian Railways have announced a protest demonstration at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar on March 27 regarding their long-pending demands.
According to the All India Loco Running Staff Association (AILRSA), drivers are under stress due to unsafe infrastructure and excessive administrative pressure.
Contrary to rules, loco pilots are being forced to work for six to seven consecutive nights, while the rules permit a maximum of four nights. This situation is severely affecting the physical and mental health of drivers, raising questions about rail safety.
Approximately 31,000 positions for loco running staff in the railways are vacant, preventing existing employees from getting adequate rest. The association claims that drivers are called back to duty after just 14 hours of rest instead of the mandatory 16 hours.
Furthermore, many railway engines still lack basic facilities like washrooms, causing significant difficulties for female drivers during long journeys. Loco pilots are now demanding a 25 percent increase in the Kilometer Allowance (KMA) and immediate recruitment of staff.
Angered by the system’s neglect, over 70 loco pilots collectively applied for Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS) last month.
The pilots say their family life is being affected due to poor-quality food in running rooms and an unsafe working environment.
Although the railway administration claims to have provided facilities like air conditioners and yoga rooms in running rooms, the struggle of drivers at the ground level continues.
This protest on March 27 could prove to be a major demonstration against railway operations and government policies.
