The Ministry of Railways is planning to provide respite to women track maintainers and assistant loco pilots by taking account of their requests for a change in job category.

This initiative follows persistent representations made by trade unions to emphasize the challenges encountered by women employees in these roles.

The Railway Board has communicated with general managers of all Zonal Railways, requesting data on female track maintainers and assistant loco pilots.

The National Federation of Indian Railwaymen (NFIR) advocated for a one-time option for women to change their job category, prompting the Railway Board to begin gathering information on such requests.

Major concerns were related to inadequate facilities, particularly during pregnancy.

The female employees also pointed out concerns regarding extended periods of sitting.

The move aims to address these issues and aligns with the demands presented by unions, including the All-India Railway Men's Federation.