The revision will benefit running staff across Indian Railways by ensuring better compensation aligned with the current Dearness Allowance levels, it said. (Image: Ministry of Railways)
Indian Railways latest update: The Ministry of Railways has revised the rates of Kilometrage Allowance and Allowance in Lieu of Kilometrage (ALK) for running staff. In a letter dated March 20, 2026, to all General Managers of zonal railways, the Railway Board (RB) said that, following the Dearness Allowance (DA) reaching 50 per cent with effect from January 1, 2024, the revised rates will be effective under the Railway Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 2016 from the same date.
These enhanced rates will benefit thousands of Loco Pilots, Assistant Loco Pilots, Firemen, Guards, and other running staff.
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“In consideration of the persistent demand by both the recognized Federations (AIRF and NFIR), the matter has been examined in Board’s office in consultation with Finance Dte of Railway Board and the same was referred to Ministry of Finance (Deptt. of Expenditure) for concurrence.
Accordingly, it has been decided that, consequent upon Dearness Allowance reaching 50% w.e.f. 01.01.2024, the revised rates of Kilometreage Allowance and Allowance in lieu of Kilometreage (ALK) for running staff in the Railway Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 2016 with effect from 01.01.2024…,” the letter reads.
