Women loco pilots speak about their struggle; many men have to be informed even for 'washroom break' in a moving train

Female Train Loco Pilots Demands: Female train drivers have protested against the 'shameful and unsafe' practice of using walkie-talkies to request 'washroom breaks' while on duty. A woman loco pilot said that if we have a request to go to the toilet, we have to tell the male loco pilot, who informs the station master. The station master then passes this on to the control room, which manages the operation of the trains.

He said, "All these conversations also reach dozens of other officers in the range through walkie-talkies. The message is broadcast everywhere at the station that a woman loco pilot wants to go to the toilet. Women drivers said that informally This current practice adopted by the government is shameful and tantamount to compromising their security."

Safety concerns and inconveniences in duty

Female train drivers, known as loco pilots, are raising their voices against an unsettling practice prevalent in their profession. They are demanding an end to the practice of using walkie-talkies to request 'washroom breaks' while on duty, citing safety and dignity concerns.

Communication hurdles

The current procedure dictates that female loco pilots must inform their male counterparts if they need to use the restroom. This information then traverses through various channels before reaching the control room, causing discomfort and potentially compromising the pilots' security.

Safety issues amplified in remote stations

For women loco pilots, especially when stationed at remote areas, the process of even accessing basic amenities like toilets poses significant safety risks. Instances of discomfort and feeling unsafe while fulfilling their bodily needs have been reported.

Disproportionate representation and struggles

Out of over 1700 women loco pilots in Indian Railways, the majority are assistant loco pilots. This disproportionate representation raises concerns about gender equality and highlights the challenges women face in advancing in their profession.

Health implications

Many women loco pilots resort to avoiding water intake to circumvent the need for restroom breaks, leading to dehydration and associated health issues. The stress induced by the current system adds to their already demanding work environment.

Seasonal hazards

With the onset of summer, incidents of fainting among women guards and drivers have been reported due to prolonged duty hours without adequate hydration. The lack of access to basic facilities exacerbates the health risks faced by women in this profession.