New Delhi, May 12 – The East Central Railway has begun installing air conditioning units in the running rooms at Saharsa Junction after loco pilots refused to use the non-air-conditioned facilities due to extreme heat, highlighting the urgent need for better rest conditions for railway staff.
Loco Pilots Protest Over Poor Rest Conditions
On May 9, facing soaring temperatures, loco pilots opted to boycott the designated running rooms and instead rested in the crew lobby, a space intended only for duty reporting and assignment briefing. The lack of air conditioning in the official resting quarters prompted the protest.“Mail and express train drivers slept on the floor because the crew lobby is not supposed to have facilities for night rest,” said one of the protesting loco pilots, stressing that uninterrupted, quality sleep is vital for the safe operation of trains.
Railway Division Acts Swiftly
Following the protest, the Samastipur Division, which oversees the Saharsa Junction, took immediate corrective action by placing an order for 273 air conditioners to cover all rooms and common areas. A railway official confirmed that installations began as soon as the units were delivered and that most rooms have already been equipped, with full installation expected within a couple of days.Permanent Solution Replaces Temporary Tenders
D.P. Srivastav, Zonal President of the All India Loco Running Staff Association, welcomed the move, pointing out that Samastipur Division had previously relied on short-term contracts with private firms to provide air conditioning during the summer. These units were typically removed after the contract period ended, leading to seasonal discomfort and delays in new tenders.“This rental model was unique to the Samastipur Division and caused repeated issues. Purchasing permanent ACs is a much-needed and long-term solution,” Srivastav stated.
Ensuring Safety Through Proper Rest
The loco pilots reiterated the critical importance of adequate rest in temperature-controlled environments. "A sound sleep for a loco pilot is very crucial for safe train operation. The rail administration must ensure that,” one pilot emphasized.The new AC installations mark a positive step toward improving the working conditions for railway personnel, particularly in the face of rising summer temperatures.