The role of a Goods Guard in Indian Railways

The role of a goods guard in Indian railways

Introduction

The role of a goods guard is like a kangaroo carrying its baby in its pocket. It is as important as any other guard’s job. To take care of someone else’s goods, one needs to have a careful nature with an attitude of save and secure. These guards are the ones who efficiently help board the goods at the right time, at the right and unload them in the same manner. These caretakers are the ones because of who supplies of unavailable material in one state is made available. Be it grains, dals, rice we get it all because of them. Coal, wheat, petroleum etc are all moved from one place to another across the country safely in their shade. Goods of people who get transferred every year or two reach safely due to them.

Although goods guard duty changes with timely shift yet it is made sure by all the guards that the goods reach their destination safely. There have been so many cases of goods theft that were made unsuccessful because of these brave guards. They have a high visiting on the goods bogies at each station. After numbering and naming it is these people who keep a check of the goods. They act like Dobermans who are known for their faithful nature. Indian railways cannot survive without these guards. In any weather condition, they stand tall to make sure that we get our stuff on time.

They are no less than territory guards, forest guards, border security guards but guard of the Indian railways.

Role and responsibility of a Goods Guard

Technically, you will be in charge of the train.  You are responsible for assuring yourself that the station master (directly or indirectly) has authorized the departure of the train from the station. The guard has authority to advise the driver to stop the train, or to operate it under his direction, in special circumstances. 

The guard is usually at the rear of the train, and can operate the emergency brake in emergencies. The role of the goods guard in the freights of the Indian Railways is pivotal for secured and safe transition of goods.

With extremely harsh conditions to put up with in a guard coach mostly on four wheels at the end of the carrier, the job of a goods guard is highly challenging. Not only, does it demand toughness in physique, but it also asks for enormous mental strength for very hostile nature of the job.