Railway Board Pushes for Biometric Systems to Curb Overtime Irregularities

The Railway Board has directed the installation of biometric attendance machines or facial recognition systems at stations to address irregularities in overtime claims. This move follows a recommendation from the Vigilance Directorate. However, some station masters believe that this could be counter-productive and suggest a case-by-case approach instead.

The Railway Board has taken a decisive step to mitigate irregularities in overtime claims by issuing written directions for the installation of biometric attendance machines or facial recognition systems at railway stations. The order impacts the general managers of the 17 railway zones nationwide.

The directive stems from a recommendation by the Vigilance Directorate, which highlighted duty swapping and irregular overtime claims. The Board's circular cites the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), emphasizing the necessity of digital attendance systems for station staff to ensure stricter accountability in processing Overtime Allowance (OTA) claims.

Despite the intended improvements, some station masters are concerned that this could backfire. They argue that many staff members work beyond their shifts without claiming overtime and that biometric systems may force the Railways to pay more, potentially leading to unintended consequences.

(With inputs from agencies.)