NFR adopts major strides to enhance efficiency and well-being of Loco Pilots

The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has consistently acknowledged the critical role that Loco Pilots play in ensuring the safety, punctuality and smooth operations of train services. As the backbone of the railway transport system, Loco Pilots operate under demanding conditions that require utmost alertness, physical fitness and mental well-being. Recognizing their contribution to rail safety and performance, NFR has adopted a range of focused initiatives to strengthen the working environment and enhance operational readiness of its running staff, particularly Loco Pilots.

In a move aimed at modernizing crew facilities and creating a more conducive environment for rest and recovery, NFR has inaugurated a new state-of-the-art Running Room at Agartala (AGTL). Fully aligned with Railway Board guidelines, the facility includes 24 residential rooms (48 beds) and 10 community rooms such as yoga and meditation hall, gymnasium, kitchen and dining areas. Notably, it is the first running room in NFR equipped with a lift for better accessibility. All 34 rooms are air-conditioned, with additional amenities like round-the-clock water supply, CCTV surveillance, adjustable lighting, emergency exits and pest control. The Running Rooms at New Coochbehar under Alipurduar Division have also achieved ISO 9001:2015 certification, ensuring a hygienic, secure and restful environment for crew members. To further support staff well-being, NFR has introduced family counselling sessions to address personal and professional stress. One such session was held at New Coochbehar on 28.06.2025, offering an open platform for families to interact with officials, thereby boosting morale and contributing to improved focus and efficiency on duty.

NFR has undertaken several forward-looking initiatives to support and empower its loco pilots with modern tools and technologies. Emphasis has been laid on audio-visual road learning, enabling loco pilots to familiarize themselves with critical route features through immersive digital modules, thereby enhancing route knowledge and operational safety. To further ensure comfort during long hauls, waterless urinals have been provided in locomotives for the exclusive use of loco pilots. In the domain of digital learning, the introduction of the ‘Gyaanvaapi’ mobile application has provided loco pilots with easy access to technical knowledge, circulars, and operational guidelines on the go. Additionally, NFR implemented Call Detail Record (CDR) analysis as a proactive measure to ensure the alertness and presence of loco pilots during train operations that aids in post-incident verification and enhances safety, enabling accurate monitoring of crew movement and communication, strengthening accountability and operational oversight. As a significant digital leap, data loggers have been integrated with the Control Office Application (COA) at 59 stations, enabling real-time data availability for better monitoring of train operations and crew performance. These initiatives reflect NFR’s commitment to improving safety, working conditions and continuous learning for its frontline operational staff.

With these sustained efforts, Northeast Frontier Railway reiterates its commitment to fostering a professional, safe, and supportive environment for its Loco Pilots. By blending technological advancements with humane workplace practices, NFR continues to uphold the highest standards in railway operations while prioritizing the well-being of those who drive the system forward every day.

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