NFIR opposes pvt participation in freight corridor construction

Nagpur, July 20 (UNI) The National Federation of Indian Railwaymen (NFIR) is opposed to the entry of private players in the construction of the proposed 'dedicated freight corridor' (DFC).

Talking to newsmen here yesterday, NFIR Working President R P Bhatnagar said that the construction of the DFC should not be outsourced.

'The Indian Railway has the capacity and the capability necessary to execute such an ambitious project. The work should, therefore, be given to the railway employees and not to an outsider,' he said.

Engaging an outside agency for such a vital project would 'compromise' the safety and security of the railways, Mr Bhatnagar said. The safety record of private contractors engaged for maintenance of track had been deplorable, and hence the opposition, he said.

Mr Bhatnagar, who is also the President of Central Railway Mazdoor Union (CRMU), said they had made several demands before the VI Pay Commission for railway employees. These included the abolition of 'Group D' category of railway employees, hike in the house rent allowance (HRA) and city compensatory allowance (CCA), assured career progression after 7, 14 and 21 years of service instead of after 12 and 24 years, and grant of full retirement benefits after 15 to 20 years of service rather than after 33 years, he said.

The commission 'appeared favourable' to the demands, and its report was expected by the end of this year or early next year, he added.

UNI