Creation of facilitated environment for loco pilots with air conditioned loco, advanced training, and better work environment
Bhopal
The dedicated loco pilots of Indian Railways are the backbone of the Indian Railways operations, which play an important role in reaching their destination safe, timely and efficiently to the passengers and goods trains across the country. With the aim of making their work environment more comfortable, safe and convenient, many initiatives are being taken by the Railway Administration, in which West Central Railway is playing a leading role.
During the year 2024-25, West Central Railway has provided air conditioning facility in 27 and locomotives for the convenience of loco pilots. Thus, a total of 562 locos have been equipped with air conditioners by March 2025. This feature not only provides relief in summer, but also maintains the concentration and efficiency of the driver while operating trains for a long time.
Railways are being made “crew friendly” by the Railways with eragonomic seats and modern techniques. Continuous work is going on to develop 858 locomotives as crew-friendly cabin under West Central Railway.
Simulator based training is being preferred to improve the efficiency and response time of loco pilots. Special security seminars for running staff, dialogue and counseling camps are being organized with families to improve their mental health, confidence and vigilance.
Toilet facilities are being ensured in all new locomotives of Indian Railways and this facility is being added through retrofitting in old engines. They are being made more useful by amending the design. Additionally, new running rooms are being installed on heavy traffic routes, so that the running staff can get enough time to rest and maintain balance even during their work period.
According to the current technological progression, facilities such as fog safety equipment, driver alert system, ‘armor’ technology and advanced braking system are also helping loco pilots in safe operation even in fog or odd conditions. In addition, onboard features, walkie-talki communication system and breakfast on stations and toilet brake’s convenience have increased the work satisfaction of loco pilots.
Loco pilots working in various categories of trains – such as goods train, passenger, mail/express and metro/suburb services are taken care of as per the schedule. At the time of the train stop at the station, they can avail the facility of toilets and breakfast and during this time the station staff also provides full support.