Chennai: In a substantial operational restructuring, Southern Railway has announced that the responsibilities of Station Masters will henceforth be confined solely to the critical functions of train operation and safety. This strategic decision, effective September 1, aims to enhance railway safety by allowing Station Masters to dedicate their full attention to core operational duties.

The move comes after discussions between the Southern Railway Operations and Commercial Department, prompted by observations that safety lapses were occurring due to the Station Masters' previously extensive workload. Authorities noted an increased frequency of train accidents in the Southern Railway over the past two years, with allegations that these incidents were partly attributable to Station Masters being overburdened and unable to perform all duties adequately.

Currently, Station Masters are tasked with a broad array of responsibilities extending beyond train movement. These include coordinating commercial duties such as ticket sales, broadcasting train travel information, soliciting passenger feedback, and monitoring coach identification systems. They also oversee the station cleaning staff. From September 1, Station Masters will be relieved of all these ancillary duties. Southern Railway has confirmed that alternate staff will be appointed to manage these newly divested commercial and administrative functions.

This restructuring will ensure that Station Masters can now focus exclusively on responsibilities related to the operational control and safety of trains. Their duties will primarily involve collecting and transmitting crucial information about passing trains to subsequent stations, and meticulously ensuring the accuracy and proper functioning of the signalling system. The decision was informed by opinions sought from Station Masters themselves, particularly those at busy stations with high train movements, where the burden of diverse responsibilities was most pronounced.