Assam: In a groundbreaking move to improve working conditions for loco pilots, the Northeast Frontier (N.F.) Railway has installed innovative waterless urinals in six WAG-9HC class locomotives.
This initiative, spearheaded by the Electric Loco Shed at Malda Town (MLDT), addresses a long-standing issue faced by loco pilots—especially on goods trains where continuous shifts of 7-8 hours lacked proper toilet facilities.
The waterless urinals operate on a dry mechanism, ensuring hygiene without the need for water, and are equipped with features designed to prevent odors. These include an epoxy-coated, unisex setup, stainless steel wire mesh, a perfume dispenser, and urinal mats.
For added safety and convenience, the urinals incorporate advanced systems, such as:
• A microcontroller-based system for automatic LED lighting and exhaust fan operation.
• An auto-sensor-based hand sanitizer dispenser.
• A UV-controlled disinfectant system.
Importantly, the urinals are accessible only when the locomotive is stationary and its brakes are engaged, ensuring operational safety.
This move is part of N.F. Railway’s plan to extend the facility to 50 more locomotives in the coming months, further improving the comfort and efficiency of loco pilots. The installation is expected to minimize the need for unscheduled stops, which can disrupt train schedules and compromise safety.
Moreover, the waterless urinals align with sustainability objectives by conserving water, reducing maintenance needs, and minimizing the environmental impact of railway operations. This innovation reflects the Indian Railways’ commitment to modernizing operations while prioritizing the well-being of its workforce.
This development marks a significant leap forward in improving both the safety and convenience of loco pilots, contributing to the overall efficiency of the railway network.
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