the station master (sm) in the indian railways is the overall manager and executive in charge of a railway station. it is a highly responsible and safety-critical role.
here is a detailed breakdown of the station master job description and responsibilities:
1. train operations and safety (the core job)
the station master's primary duty is to ensure the safe and punctual movement of trains within the station limits and the adjacent railway section.
signal operation: operating signals and points for the smooth and safe arrival, reception, and departure of trains.
line clear authority: no train can proceed without the station master (or the designated assistant station master) granting line clear authority to the train driver.
coordination: communicating and coordinating with the divisional control office, loco pilots (drivers), guards, and station masters of neighboring stations to manage train traffic flow and prevent delays.
rule compliance: ensuring all staff under their command strictly adhere to the general rules (gr), subsidiary rules (sr), and all safety protocols.
emergency handling: assuming charge during accidents, derailments, or other emergencies, coordinating relief efforts, and immediately reporting the incident to higher authorities.
2. station management and supervision
the sm is the supervisor of all railway employees at the station and the custodian of station assets.
staff supervision: overseeing the duties of various station staff, including platform attendants, booking clerks, porters, and maintenance personnel.
facility management: ensuring the cleanliness, upkeep, and proper maintenance of the entire station premises, including waiting rooms, platforms, restrooms, and offices.
safety equipment: checking that all essential safety equipment (like fire extinguishers, first aid boxes, signals, and communication gear) is present and in perfect working order.
records and reporting: maintaining critical operational records, such as the train signal register, station diary, and reports related to accidents, delays, and ticket sales.
3. passenger amenities and commercial duties
the station master is responsible for providing essential services and a good experience to the traveling public.
passenger amenities: ensuring all passenger amenities (drinking water, lighting, seating, announcement systems, etc.) are functioning properly.
assistance: helping passengers, especially during emergencies, and resolving public complaints and grievances.
commercial tasks (at smaller stations): at smaller stations, the station master may also directly handle commercial duties like:
ticket booking (selling reserved and unreserved tickets).
parcel and luggage booking.
12 - 13 Years
6 Openings
4.0 - 4.3 Lac/Yr
Face-to-Face interview
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