Sector
Railways
Keyword

Signalman

Cabinman

The tasks of a Signalman is expected to perform include:

Controlling flow of railway traffic over section of line within his jurisdiction

Operating signals recorded on the control graph

Setting of points from control tower or cabin under instructions from Station Master

Receiving and transmitting information about train's movement by bell signal and telephone

Exchanging secret numbers from Train Dispatcher or Station Master at railway station

Operating lever on which slot is transferred by Train Dispatcher

Controlling movement of shunting traffic within railway yards

Setting points and lowering signals when signalled by Shunting Jamadar and Pilot Jamadar

Adjusting distant signals by slackening signals wires at night and tightening them in morning

Adjusting screws and reports defects to senior officers

Signalling trains at night when visibility is poor using hand lamp

Fixing fog signals on railway line at fixed distances to restrict speed

Stopping train in emergency during day and night when signals are off and to allow train to proceed further

Maintaining contact with Station Master through telephone and provide information about traffic movement on lines within his jurisdiction

Keeping contact with Shunting Jamadar through hand signals for proper shunting operations

Cleaning and oiling levers to keep them in perfect order

Knowledge of standard procedures to be followed in signalling

Knowledge of traffic rules regarding trains

Familiar with adequate signal techniques

Ability to protect line in an emergency and during work affecting track

Ability to take action when train is noticed to have parted

Ability to control opening and closing of gates at level crossings

Knowledge of lighting signal lights at night at small railway stations

Ability to follow instructions

Good communication skills

Time management skills

Diligent and hard working

Physically fit

It needs one to be on their toes

Need not handle a team

Local travelling is not a part of this job role

Part-time work and contractual jobs are available in some cities

Work from home option is not available

Working hours

Working hours are 8/10 hours every day for 6 days a week

Shift system maybe available

Is the job suitable for a candidate with special needs?
Maybe

The job is considered mildly hazardous or dangerous

Occupational hazards may include stress-related illness, back pain, etc.

Health hazard may include heavy noise, dust pollution, etc.

For signal man - INR 8,000 to INR 10,000 per month

(These figures are indicative and subject to change)

Overview of Railway Industry in India

The Railways in India provide the principal mode of transportation for freight and passengers. It brings together people from the farthest corners of the country and makes possible the conduct of business, sightseeing, pilgrimage and education. The Indian Railways have been a great integrating force during the last more than 155 years. It has bound the economic life of the country and helped in accelerating the development of industry and agriculture. The growth of Indian Railways in the 155 years of its existence is thus phenomenal. It has played a vital role in the economic, industrial and social development of the country. The network runs multi-gauge operations extending over 63,273 route kilometres.

The main objectives of railways planning have been to develop the transport infrastructure to carry the projected quantum of traffic and meet the developmental needs of the economy. Since the inception of the planned era in 1950-51, Indian Railways have implemented nine five-year plans, apart from annual plans in some years. During the Plans, emphasis was laid on a comprehensive programme of system modernization. With capacity being stretched to the full, investment of cost-effective technological changes become inescapable in order to meet the ever-increasing demand for rail transport. Along with the major thrust directed towards rehabilitation of assets, technological changes and upgradation of standards were initiated in important areas of tracks, locomotives, passenger coaches, wagon bogie designs, signalling and telecommunication.

Indian Railways

Towns and cities across India