Loco pilots warn that fatigue science cannot be compromised: Indian Railways must adopt Fatigue Risk Management System!

Press Release of All India Loco Running Staff Association (AILRSA)

In this press release, loco pilots strongly establish the urgent need for Indian Railways to adopt Fatigue Risk Management System (FRMS)-based rules with strict implementation. They have pointed out how the recent episode involving Indigo Airlines shows that safety related rules are conveniently overlooked when powerful private companies resist them and how governments bow in front of their desires. The aviation controversy closely mirrors the long-standing issues faced by loco pilots in Indian Railways: continuous night shifts, excessive duty hours, and inadequate rest.

The press release also notes that although the Chennai High Court ordered Deputy Chief Labour Commissioner (Central) Chennai to conduct a job analysis within 6 weeks from 26/04/22, the Railway administration refused permission to the labour department, claiming that only Railways have the competency to conduct this analysis. Workers have once again highlighted a very important aspect that jeopardizes the safety of crores of railway passengers and lakhs of railway workers.