Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state:-

(a)        whether it is a fact that there is an acute shortage of coolies at all the major stations in Delhi which causes hardship to passengers particularly the elderly and women and that it also leads to exploitation by the available coolies;

(b)        if so, the reasons for the shortage;

(c)        the approved and actual strength of coolies as on 1st February, 2009 at each of the stations; and

(d)        the steps proposed to ensure adequate number of coolies at each station and also to ensure that they do not indulge in overcharging ?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS
(DR. R. VELU)

(a) to (d): The appointment of Gangmen from among the licensed porters has led to the shortage at the stations of Delhi. The process of engagement of fresh licensed porters to overcome the shortage could not be initiated as a large number of these newly appointed gangmen have submitted representations for restoring their badges to work again as licensed porters. The sanctioned and existing strength of licensed porters at major stations of Delhi is as under:

Name of stations                Sanctioned strength                    Existing strength

New Delhi                            1407                                                          648

Delhi Main                           830                                                           247

Hazrat Nizammudin              431                                                           316

Delhi Sarai Rohilla                25                                                             16

To ensure availability of licensed porters, redeployment of licensed porters within the division is being resorted to till such time the process of engaging fresh licensed porters could be initiated. The requirement of licensed porters at Delhi main station is being reviewed and rationalized so that the surplus could be redeployed at New Delhi where there is major shortage. To overcome the problem of overcharging and exploitation by licensed porters, regular checks are being conducted at these stations. The badges of licensed porters involved in such activities are being impounded/suspended.