Mumbai Local Train Disruptions Loom as Motormen Protest ADAS Workload

Mumbai’s Central Railway services face potential disruptions on Monday due to a planned protest by motormen, who are raising concerns over increased workload and the implementation of the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) in train cabs. The ADAS, designed to enhance safety and ease driver workload through sensors and cameras that monitor surroundings and alert drivers to potential hazards, has instead become a point of contention.

The motormen, represented by the Central Railway Mazdoor Sangh (CRMS) Loco Running Staff Branch, argue that the system’s constant audio-visual alerts add to their stress in an already demanding role. “The continuous unpleasant audio-visual alerts of the ADAS are disturbing for motormen,” a CRMS representative told , highlighting the challenging working conditions. The union has called for either addressing these hazardous conditions or assigning an assistant loco pilot to support drivers.

Railway officials, however, remain optimistic about resolving the issue, stating that negotiations with the motormen’s union are ongoing and the protest may be called off soon. The planned action follows a notice from CRMS, which warned of a “work to rule” approach starting Sunday, signaling stricter adherence to protocols without additional duties.

The potential protest underscores broader concerns about motormen’s working conditions, with the union noting that vacant posts in the Mumbai division have led to extended hours for current staff. While motormen receive overtime pay, the mounting administrative pressure and surveillance from ADAS cameras have fueled discontent.