Title - Look into motormen's demands: RR Patil

MUMBAI: Home minister RR Patil has expressed displeasure with the railway administration's approach towards motormen. "In May 2010, motormen had gone on strike as the railway administration turned a blind eye to their demands. Commuters had to face hardships due to non-availability of locals. I intervened and a compromise formula was reached between the administration and striking motormen. The administration agreed to look into their demands and the strike was withdrawn by the motormen's union," Patil said."It is unfortunate that nothing has changed for the motormen in two years," he added.Patil said citizens have to face problems due to the tussle between the administration and motormen. "To avoid inconvenience to Mumbaikars, both sides must have regular dialogue," Patil stated. "Next week, a meeting of motormen and the railway authorities will be called to sort out issues," he added.Sharat Chandrayan, chief public relations officer, said, "The railway board has taken a view on all demands by motormen after the 2010 agitation." A senior Western Railway official said, "The board has fulfilled some demands and those unattended to are unfeasible."Motormen had gone on a two-day strike in May 2010 and had demanded a weekly off, better infrastructure at rest-rooms and filling of vacant posts. Failing to get a positive response, the motormen again went on a 'flash strike' on July 20, this year.