Primary Responsibility of a Train Driver
The primary responsibility of a train driver is to take a train from station to station. Along with the train he takes millions of commuters to their destinations. We do hear a lot of complaints regarding the train services day in and out, but till date it is the most preferred or favored means of transport in the entire world.
It is the duty of a train driver to ensure that train runs safely and reaches the destination at the correct time. They also ensure that proper service is provided to the commuters. They work in close conjunction with the guard and follow the instructions as provided to them on each station. In recent times, the introduction of driver-only operated trains has seen an additional responsibility on them as they would need to operate the train without any assistance from a guard. Here are the duties as performed by a train driver.
- Train driver prepares train for service of passenger
Before the train starts a journey, it is the duty of the train driver to check all the equipment on board and ensure that everything is working well and is in order. Once he gives a go-ahead, only then the train can proceed for the journey. He is also responsible to check and ensure that the train has been cleaned and is in good condition to be used by the commuters.
- Train driver ensures the safety and follow instructions
Ensuring the safety of the crew, passengers as well as the train is also the responsibility of the train driver. He keeps in touch with the officials, keeps a track of the time and distance covered, ensures that train is going with the correct speed and follows the instructions given by the support staff. He also keeps a constant check on the equipment and corrects any problem that might appear. He needs to be alert for any kind of danger and take precautionary actions accordingly.
- Train driver and emergency
A train driver also needs to perform certain important duties in case of emergency like an accident, train derailment or fire. These are clearly mentioned in the rules and regulations laid down by the governing body to ensure safe travel. He is also given proper training for these procedures and includes the immediate evacuation of passengers.
The job of a train driver brings along a lot of responsibilities and you would need to go through at least one year of training and pass certain tests to become eligible to drive a train.