Tatanagar revamps facilities for loco pilots and train managers 

Jamshedpur: Significant improvements have been made to the facilities available to loco pilots, particularly in running rooms where they rest between duties at Tatanagar. Before 2014, running rooms were in poor condition, with more than six beds in a single hall, leading to disturbances and dissatisfaction among the crew. The average occupancy per day was 95, with peak occupancy reaching 105, and the average rest time was only six hours. The level of satisfaction among crew members regarding their rest was mixed.

While interacting with the media ARM Abhishek Singhal, PK Singh, KP Jaiswal SK Gupta shared recent developments.

Today, running rooms have undergone a substantial transformation. The big halls have been partitioned into two or three-bedded rooms or cabins, reducing disturbances and ensuring a more pleasant stay. Separate restrooms with attached washrooms have been provided for female crew members. The total number of rooms has increased to 29, with 94 beds available. The average occupancy per day has risen to 150, with peak occupancy reaching 170, and the average rest time has improved to eight hours. Crew satisfaction levels have significantly improved.

Previously, running rooms were equipped only with fans and noisy water coolers, which disturbed the crew’s sleep. Now, all running rooms are air-conditioned with diesel generator backups to ensure a comfortable resting environment. Water supply, which was once dependent on railway water banks, is now available 24/7 through submersible pumps, with RO systems and chillers ensuring fresh drinking water.

Innovations have also been introduced to help crew members feel fresh and clean. Previously, they had to carry extra uniforms or work in soiled clothes, but now running rooms are equipped with fully automatic washing machines, ironing tables, and shoe polish machines. To keep the crew healthy and energetic, running rooms now feature air-conditioned gyms, meditation/yoga rooms, and foot massagers.

The cleanliness and hygiene of bedding have also improved. Bed sheets, pillow covers, and blankets are now washed in hygienic laundries and individually packed. Earlier, crew members had to carry raw materials for cooking and other personal items, adding weight to their bags. Now, running rooms offer 24/7 fresh, hygienic, and ready meals with kitchen staff support. Each occupant is provided with individual sleepers, and bathrooms are equipped with liquid hand wash bottles, significantly reducing the weight of crew members’ line bags by 3-4 kgs.

These enhancements not only improve the working conditions for loco pilots and train managers but also ensure their well-being, allowing them to perform their duties more effectively and contribute to the smooth and safe operation of Indian Railways.