Seventy-two Mail/Express loco pilots from the Central Railway in Mumbai have collectively written to the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) requesting voluntary retirement.
The loco pilots cited severe physical and mental stress as the primary reason for their decision. In their letter, they highlighted long working hours, mounting pressure, and unsatisfactory rest facilities as key concerns.
They complained about poor conditions at running rooms the rest houses provided to train crew between duties including unhygienic surroundings, inadequate food quality, and lack of proper maintenance. According to them, these conditions make it difficult to recover after demanding shifts.
The pilots also pointed to increasing administrative pressure, frequent warnings, and disciplinary actions over minor operational issues, which they say have negatively affected morale.
Additionally, staff shortages in the division have reportedly increased workload on existing loco pilots, adding to fatigue and stress. The group stated that repeated representations to railway authorities did not lead to significant improvements, prompting them to seek voluntary retirement.