Rights panel demands Railway explanation
A locopilot was bound to do six continuous nights as per the existing rule
kochi: The Railways has taken punitive action against a locopilot who asked for “rest” after doing four continuous nights.
Locopilot C. Pradeep with the Kollam shed submitted a written request for a day of “rest” citing that he was too tired after four continuous days of night duty. He said he was afraid “he would fall asleep” while on duty”. However, the Railways issued a show cause notice against the 42-year-old and later decided to effect an increment cut for the next two years.
“This is a classic instance of the Railways’ lack of concern for safety. They have robbed the locopilot of at least Rs 50,000 by effecting the increment cut. Currently, there are 60 posts of locopilots waiting to be filled. Instead of recruiting, the Railways is resorting to pruning the existing staff,” said All-India Loco Running Staff Association.
In reply to the locopilot’s request, the Railways warned that no one could shirk his duty citing safety issues and a locopilot was bound to do six continuous nights as per the existing rule.
“The Railways still follows the 1937 rule. The scenario has changed. Now a locopilot is being forced to work for 91 days before he can avail of leave.
In the Thiruvananthapuram division, over 30 new trains were introduced in the last six years while only six sets of additional crew were recruited in the same period. We demand that the vacancies be filled immediately”, said AILRSA leader P.N. Soman.
The Human Rights Commission has sought an explanation from the Railway authorities and has asked them to file a report before October 20.
( Source : dc correspondent )
Next Story
