Railway Minister Clears Air on Loco Pilots’ Diet Controversy

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has clarified that there are no restrictions on loco pilots consuming cold drinks or coconut water before starting their duty. His statement comes amid controversy over a directive issued by the South Railway advising loco pilots against consuming certain items before duty.

Members of Parliament Vaiko from the MDMK and Shanmugam from the DMK raised the issue in the Rajya Sabha, questioning whether the South Railway had indeed issued orders prohibiting loco pilots from consuming cold drinks, certain fruits, cough syrup, and coconut water while on duty or before commencing duty.

They argued that such restrictions are inappropriate, particularly during the summer when engine heat causes severe dehydration for the drivers. In response, Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that the South Railway’s directive has already been revised, assuring that loco pilots are allowed to consume the aforementioned items before their duty.