उत्तर मध्य रेलवे
जनसम्पर्क कार्यालय
उत्तरमध्य रेलवे,प्रयागराज
पत्रांक: 11पीआर/07/2021 प्रेस विज्ञप्ति दिनांक:29.07.2021
Measuring job satisfaction, meeting expectations: Gross Happiness Index for running staff
North Central Railway being one of the busiest zones of Indian Railways allocates utmost priority to safe train operations. In a bid to improve safety, North Central Railway (NCR), has implemented a unique innovation to boost the morale of its running staff (Loco Pilots and Assistant Loco Pilots). A motivated employee is the most precious asset to an organization. Working upon it, NCR came up with a unique tool to measure satisfaction level of its running staff: Gross Happiness Index(GHI), first such index to be adopted in Indian Railways. Since it's adoption more than a year ago, NCR has successfully implemented the concept .
NC Railway is not only concerned about the happiness quotient of their running staff but also committed for providing a conducive atmosphere & pleasant stay in the running room. A ‘Running Room’ is the facility that is provided to the LPs and ALPs for availing rest after their prescribed duty hours. Proper rest is extremely important for Loco Pilots (LPs)/Assistant Loco Pilots(ALP) as their work is of constant concentration and any lapse in concentration and alertness by them can lead to a mishap. It is in this context that the condition of running rooms and the facilities provided in the same become quintessential in ensuring safety. Introduction of the concept of the Gross Happiness Index (GHI) has been done in order to measure the level of satisfaction of the LPs/ALPs with the condition & facilities provided in the running rooms of NCR.
The GHI is calculated on a scale of 10 for 10 attributes, based on unequivocal feedback from running staff. The Quality of facilities & services in running room is rated through GHI on the scale from less than 6 as Average, 6 to 6,9 as good, 7 to 8 as very good and above 8 as excellent.
The aspects rated under this index are :-
•System for allotment of beds in the running room from lobby.
•Quality of reception in running room.
•Cleanliness of the allotted room to the running staff.
•Cleanliness of toilets and bathrooms with 24 hrs water supply.
•Cleanliness and quality of linen.
•Behaviour of housekeeping staff.
•Behaviour of mess staff.
•Time taken for preparing meals for running staff.
•Quality of food provided to the running staff.
•Neat and clean atmosphere in the premises of the running room.
Introduction of this system of evaluating happiness level of our staff about the facilities in 24 running rooms over NCR has not only improved facilities there based upon the feedback received but has also boosted the morale of running staff. During ongoing financial year from April to June 2021 the GHI registered is 9.3 as compared to the rating of 8.8 in same period last year.
While speaking on the subject GM/NCR Shri V.K.Tripathi said “work place satisfaction achieved & measured through this innovative method among staff due to quality rest at running rooms, not only boosts the morale & confidence of running staff but ultimately acts as a catalyst for ensuring safe and efficient train operations.”