The revision follows an increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) to 50%, which typically triggers adjustments in certain allowances under the Railway Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 2016.
The decision was taken after consultations within the Railway Board and with the Ministry of Finance.
What has changed
The updated rates apply to both loco running staff and traffic running staff. These allowances are linked to the distance covered during duty and are a key component of earnings for operational railway employees.
For loco running staff, revised kilometrage allowance rates (per 100 km) include:
- Loco Pilot (Mail): ₹606
Loco Pilot (Passenger)/Sr. Motorman: ₹600
Loco Pilot (Goods): ₹594
Loco Pilot (Shunting) Grade I: ₹461
Loco Pilot (Shunting) Grade II: ₹447
Corresponding ALK rates (per 160 km) range from ₹969 for Loco Pilot (Mail) to ₹715 for certain shunting categories.
For traffic running staff, revised kilometrage allowance rates include:
- Mail/Express Guard: ₹549
- Sr. Passenger Guard and Sr. Goods Guard: ₹543
- Goods Guard: ₹537
- Assistant Guard/Brakesman: ₹305
ALK rates for these categories range between ₹488 and ₹878.
Background and applicability
The revision references a previous order issued in 2019 and incorporates demands raised by recognised staff federations. The new rates will be applicable across Indian Railways and production units.
The circular also clarifies that all other conditions governing the admissibility of kilometrage allowance and ALK remain unchanged.
What it means for employees
Kilometrage allowance forms a significant part of compensation for running staff such as loco pilots, guards, and assistant staff, as it compensates for duty linked to train movement rather than fixed hours.
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