Nagpur: In a major initiative aimed at improving working conditions and ensuring safety for train crew, the Electric Loco Shed, Ajni, under the Central Railway’s Nagpur Division, has successfully installed unisex waterless urinals in WAG-9 Goods Electric Locomotives.
Loco pilots operating freight trains often endure continuous journeys of 7–8 hours or more without access to basic sanitation facilities. This long-standing issue not only affects crew comfort but also poses operational risks, as drivers may be forced to disembark at remote or unscheduled locations to relieve themselves—potentially compromising train safety and punctuality. The concern is particularly pressing for female loco pilots.
Addressing this critical need, the Ajni Loco Shed has installed waterless urinal systems in 26 WAG-9 locomotives, with plans to extend the facility to 35 more in the near future.
The newly installed urinals are designed with hygiene, safety, and ease of use in mind. Each unit features:
- Epoxy-coated, odorless unisex urinal pot
- Stainless steel wire mesh
- Perfume dispenser and urinal mats
- Microcontroller-based system that activates LED lights and exhaust fans based on occupancy
- Auto-sensor hand sanitizer
- UV-controlled disinfectant system
- Safety hand rail and enhanced ventilation
Importantly, the urinal system is engineered with a built-in safety feature: it operates only when the locomotive is stationary and the brakes are applied, ensuring zero risk to train operations.
This forward-thinking measure reflects Central Railway’s commitment to innovation, employee welfare, and operational excellence. It also sets a new standard for crew-centric infrastructure in Indian Railways, enhancing both safety and dignity for those at the helm of freight movement.
