Restrictions Eased on Constant-Speed Control System for High-Speed Trains During Night Operations

Loco pilots and their unions have urged Indian Railways to revoke restrictions on the night-time use of the push-button constant-speed (BPCS) control system in certain railway zones. The system enables drivers to maintain a fixed speed, allowing them to better concentrate on critical safety aspects such as signals and track conditions.

“A number of train sections have permanent speed limits of over 130 kmph for extended distances. In such cases, the BPCS allows us to set a constant speed and focus on monitoring the route more efficiently,” said a loco pilot, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Though the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO)—the body responsible for designing the BPCS—has not mandated any restrictions on its use at night, zones like North Central Railway have imposed such curbs. This move has sparked frustration among loco pilots, who say it hampers operational efficiency.

Responding to the issue, Shashi Kant Tripathi, Chief Public Relations Officer of North Central Railway, said the restriction was introduced after instances were observed where drivers became inattentive or even dozed off while using the system during night hours. “To ensure alertness, we limited the use of BPCS at night. During the day, there are no such restrictions,” he said.

However, loco pilots argue that such measures are inconsistent across the country. “There are no such restrictions in southern railway zones. Why should northern zones have different norms?” one pilot questioned.

Kamlesh Singh, Central Treasurer and Divisional Secretary of the Indian Railway Loco Runningmen Organisation (IRLRO), filed an RTI application in May last year to seek clarification on the matter. The RDSO confirmed it had issued no directive limiting BPCS use at night.

Sanjay Pandhi, Working President of IRLRO, also pushed for the relaxation of restrictions. “The BPCS enhances driver alertness, aids punctuality, and conserves energy. It’s installed in all electric locomotives, but its advantages are being underutilized due to inconsistent policies,” he said.

As pressure mounts from within the railway workforce, all eyes are now on the authorities to reconsider the existing norms and allow uniform implementation of the BPCS system nationwide—regardless of time.