RPF Officer's Dilemma: Is a Commute Accident Considered On-Duty by Railway Board?

Sir, I am an RPF in Indian Railways. After performing duty, on the way home on a bike, I met with an accident. Would this time be considered as on duty or not, according to the Railway Board's letter? Please advise.

It is to submit that on 12.11.2024, I performed general duty at Admin/O/TPJ. After completing my duty at 19:30 hrs, I left the office for home by bike. At around 19:50 hrs, while riding my bike on the road heading to TVS Tolgate from the Head Post Office, another bike rider suddenly intruded into my path through an opening in the center median near the Central Library. Despite my best efforts to avoid the collision, I was struck by the bike and sustained injuries to my left leg.

Immediately, I was shifted to Railway Hospital/Ponmalai in a private car by Sri N. Saravanan, SIPF/MV, who incidentally arrived at the scene. After initial treatment, I was referred to Kauvery Hospital, Cantonment, Trichy-620001, for further management. There, I underwent orthopedic surgery on my left knee, was discharged on 25.11.2024, and directed to RH/GOC for further treatment.

Since the accident occurred while traveling between the workplace and residence located at Door No. 9, Brindavan Garden, Pudukkottai Main Road, Subramaniapuram, Tiruchy-20 on a direct route, and the accident was not caused due to my own negligence or misconduct, the period of sick leave from 13.11.2024 may be granted as Work-Related Illness and Injury Leave (WRILL) as per RBE No. 64/2019 dated 23.04.2019.

I hereby enclose all relevant documents for your kind perusal and further action.

Hello. I hope you're doing well after your accident, and I'm sorry to hear that.

Determining "On Duty" Status for Travel Time

In response to your question, the Railway Board's specific regulations will determine whether or not time spent traveling after work is regarded as "on duty." Such circumstances typically fall under their regulations about mishaps that occur while an employee is on official business or in transit.

Referring to the precise provisions stated in the Railway Board's letter or circular that pertain to your position is the best course of action. You can consider asking your department or the Personnel Branch for clarification if you don't have access to it.

I hope you get well soon!