The All-India Loco Running Staff Association (AILRSA) has urged the Indian Railways to provide electronic earmuffs for loco pilots in all railway divisions. The Delhi Division of the Northern Railway had commenced trials from July 1 for loco pilots on the Jammu Rajdhani Express.
AILRSA assistant general secretary C. Sunish said that loco pilots have been demanding safe working conditions for a long time.
The move by the Delhi Division is a ray of hope for loco pilots who are overstressed by adverse working conditions that include high temperature loco cabins, and high-levels of noise reaching up to 140 db (engine horn).
Soundproof locomotives
He said the association had been demanding soundproof and air-conditioned cabins for locomotives. At least, the Railways has started addressing the dangerous noise levels. Being exposed to dangerous noise levels would also would impair the mental ability of the individual, he said, quoting several studies.
The Delhi Division plans to extend the facility to all loco pilots on its trains after the successful trial on Jammu Rajdhani Express.
Meanwhile, South Western Railway General Manager P.K. Saxena told The Hindu that the zone is awaiting clearance from the Research Design and Standardisation Organisation of the Railways to procure electronic earmuffs.
The RDSO has to specify the requirements of the equipment as well as the procuring agency, he said.
