In the latest development in the matter of the long standing demand of loco pilots break for meal and toilet has been refused by the Indian railways. This may seem strange but the reason cited by the railways seems valid. “Legislation of break for meal and attending nature’s call is not operationally feasible,” the committee said while considering the demands of the All India Loco Running Staff Association (AILRSA). The Board then sent out a circular in this regard to all the Railway zones. The AILRSA said that the committee’s recommendations were unrealistic. The association further criticized the committee for not properly considering the stress on loco pilots. “The Committee has recommended revision in the definition of High-speed trains from the existing 110 kmph to 130 kmph,” the Board’s circular addressed the general managers of the zonal railways. To this the AILRSA responded and said the stress levels of the loco pilots has been increased considerably due to the increase in speed limits from 110 kmph to 130 kmph. The refusal of loco pilots break for meals or attending nature’s call is unacceptable. The question as also raised about the lack of toilet facility specifically for the loco pilots. The AILRSA further claimed that this leads to severe compromise in levels of alertness.
Long standing demand of loco pilots break for meal and toilet refused by Indian railways
