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Railway officials hold meeting with SRMU on loco drivers' demands
Senior railway officials from the Chennai division met with the Southern Railway Mazdoor Union (SRMU) to discuss loco running staff demands, including concerns about long working hours and recruitment delays for loco drivers. The meeting followed mass leave applications by more than 1,000 SRMU-affiliated staff.
Why It Matters
The talks highlight industrial relations issues within Southern Railway and potential impact on train operations if staff demands are not resolved.
Timeline
4 Events
Southern Railway official says SRMU demands noted and would be resolved
May 9, 2026
A senior official of Southern Railway stated that SRMU's demands have been noted and would be resolved.
SRMU memorandum details demands affecting loco drivers
May 9, 2026
In its memorandum, SRMU outlined demands such as providing night rest for loco drivers on continuous night duties, air-conditioned cabins for loco drivers, and sanctioning of leaves for eligible loco drivers. It also highlighted slow progress in loco pilot selection, promotions, and depot transfers, linking these issues to operational hardships in shunting, EMU, and long-distance trains.
Senior railway officials convene meeting with SRMU to discuss loco drivers' demands
May 9, 2026
Senior railway officials of the Chennai division of Southern Railway met with members of SRMU to discuss various demands of the loco running staff, including working hours and recruitment delays for loco drivers.
SRMU-affiliated loco staff submit mass leave applications protesting demands
May 9, 2026
More than 1,000 loco staff affiliated with the SRMU submitted mass leave applications in protest of perceived neglect of their demands, as reported ahead of the meeting with railway officials.