Indian Railways staff making reels on duty has raised concerns over passenger safety and operational security. Employees across safety-critical departments are reportedly recording videos during train operations and sharing them online.
These include loco pilots, assistant loco pilots, guards, station masters and signal maintainers, officials said. The videos reportedly show locomotive operations, signalling activities and railway equipment.
The practice continues despite earlier instructions from the Railway Ministry. Officials said such activities could distract employees and expose sensitive operational information.
Railway Ministry had issued instructions against uploading videos
The Railway Ministry received a complaint through the CPGRAM portal in 2021. It highlighted videos showing locomotive operations on platforms such as YouTube.
Subsequently, the ministry advised zonal railways to counsel supervisory staff and crew members. It asked them to prevent employees from uploading videos showing locomotive operations.
The ministry warned that such content could compromise locomotive and passenger safety. However, officials said employees continue posting videos from operational locations.
Reels show train operations and safety equipment
Videos uploaded by railway employees reportedly cover several aspects of train operations. Some assistant loco pilots have recorded footage while operating trains.
Meanwhile, guards, station masters and signal maintainers have posted videos showing their official duties. These include walkie-talkie conversations, signal exchanges and instructions to train staff.
Some employees have also recorded themselves walking on railway tracks or posing before locomotives. Additionally, certain videos explain locomotive components and their functioning.
These reportedly include keys, handles, braking systems and speedometers. Officials said sharing such information violates established railway norms.
The employees involved include young recruits and experienced personnel. Many are associated with Signal and Telecommunication, Engineering, Traffic and Commercial departments.
Officials also said some chief loco inspectors had joined the trend. They alleged that certain employees were competing with younger colleagues in producing social media content.
Railway zones flag distraction and security risks
A senior loco pilot said recording videos during duty could divert attention from operational responsibilities. Employees may focus on cameras and their appearance instead of assigned tasks.
Even a brief lapse could increase the risk of operational errors. This makes the practice particularly concerning in safety-critical roles.
South Central Railway had also flagged the issue in November 2025. Its advisory specifically warned loco pilots and assistant loco pilots against activities that could distract them.
The zone described locomotive cabs as critical operational areas requiring undivided attention. It said personal videography and mobile phone use could compromise cab security and operational discipline.
Furthermore, the advisory warned that such recordings could potentially violate internal security protocols. It reiterated instructions against uploading railway-operation videos on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.
Railway staff face restrictions on private business
Officials have also raised concerns about employees monetising social media content. They said some railway personnel had turned reel-making into a side business.
They cited Rule 15 of the Railway Services Conduct Rules, 1966. The provision restricts railway servants from engaging directly or indirectly in private trade or business.
It also prohibits employees from accepting other employment without prior approval from the competent authority.
The concerns have placed renewed focus on compliance with railway safety instructions. Officials have stressed that employees must prioritise operational responsibilities over personal social media activities.
