TV
To improve the efficiency and working conditions of train controllers, the Ministry of Railways on Wednesday announced a series of operational and structural reforms across its control offices.
According to a senior official, controllers will now be required to serve a minimum tenure of three years within the control office to develop domain expertise and ensure optimal performance. Selection for these roles will be restricted to experienced traffic inspectors and station masters with proven service records and merit.
Structured Performance Reviews and Stress Management Measures
The reforms also introduce mandatory refresher training for controllers every five years, integrating simulator-based modules and real-time scenario exercises. "Performance will be monitored regularly through a structured mechanism, evaluating key areas such as adherence to timetables, handling of emergency situations, communication proficiency and understanding of railway operational rules," the official said to PTI.
The Ministry has also proposed a formal succession and rotation policy for all control office posts to minimise dependency on individual staff members. Recognising the intense demands of the role, initiatives such as regular health check-ups, stress counselling, and yoga sessions will also be introduced to support employee wellbeing.
Committee Formed Following RDSO's Observations
These decisions follow recommendations made by a committee formed by the Ministry on August 27, 2024. The six-member panel included three Additional Members from Staff, Traffic, and Revenue departments, a Principal Executive Director from Infrastructure, and two Executive Directors specialising in Transformation and Traffic Transportation.
The committee was established after the Research Design and Standards Organisation (RDSO), which operates under the Ministry, raised concerns regarding issues such as pay structure, staffing shortages, recruitment challenges, and inadequate amenities.
Integrated Command Centres and Unified Cadre Structure Introduced
The new guidelines, circulated to all railway zones on June 25, 2025, aim to align India’s Railway Traffic Control Organisation with global standards. Notably, the Traffic Control wing has been renamed as "Operations & Traffic Control" to function as an integrated command centre for all departments involved in train operations.
The circular also specified that the controller cadre will be developed as a skilled talent pool, drawn from direct recruitment, internal examinations, and departmental selection. It further stressed that a uniform and well-equipped working environment would be ensured for all control office staff.
