(Railways like Indigo loco Pilots) Railway loco pilots are demanding control over their working hours. Their aim is to reduce fatigue and prevent accidents. In this context, they have cited government decisions related to pilots in Indigo Airlines.
The All India Loco Running Staff Association (AILRSA) has expressed dissatisfaction with the government's stance. They alleged that the government is lenient towards private companies, but government employees' protests face strict action and pressure. If loco pilots remain firm on their demands, it could affect railway traffic, directly impacting passengers.
Need for Rest Rules
According to the All India Loco Running Staff Association, public sector employees face action if they protest. However, while private companies flout safety rules, the government bows to them, even though it can endanger the entire system. Concerns have been raised about the failure and fatigue risk management issues related to the rest hours of Indigo Airline pilots.
Locomotive pilots in the railway sector have been enduring similar conditions for decades. They need safe and scientific work procedures. Fatigue-related rules are methods developed after many accidents and safety issues.
International Example
AILRSA mentioned the rules in Europe, America, Australia, and Canada. The European Union has strict duty and rest limits. In America, railway services are operated under the 'Hours of Service Act', which has clear limits on rest hours. In Australia and Canada, employee duty schedules are prepared using advanced bio-mathematical models.
Demands of Locomotive Pilots
AILRSA has presented the following key demands to the government:
Maximum daily duty hours of 6
16 hours of rest after each duty
Mandatory weekly rest
Locomotive pilots firmly believe that it is necessary to implement scientific work procedures and appropriate rest rules for safety.
In Brief
Locomotive pilots are demanding control over their working hours.
Their aim is to reduce fatigue and prevent accidents.
The All India Loco Running Staff Association (AILRSA) has expressed dissatisfaction with the government's stance.