Nagpur: In a significant step towards promoting women empowerment, Central Railway celebrated International Women’s Day by operating the prestigious Vande Bharat Express and a Special Goods Train with all-women crews on March 8, 2025. The initiative highlighted Indian Railways’ commitment to gender inclusivity and recognizing the invaluable contribution of women in railway operations.
The CSMT-Sainagar Shirdi Vande Bharat Express (Train No. 22223) marked a historic milestone as it was entirely managed by an all-women crew. The train was piloted by Surekha Yadav, Asia’s First Woman Loco Pilot, assisted by Sangeeta Kumari as the Assistant Loco Pilot. Ensuring seamless coordination, Shweta Ghone served as the Train Manager.
To enhance passenger convenience, a dedicated team of Women Travelling Ticket Examiners (TTEs)ensured smooth ticketing services. The team included Anushka K. P, M. J. Rajput, Sarika Ojha, Suvarna Pashte, Ms. Kavita Maral, and Ms. Manisha Ram. Additionally, onboard services were efficiently handled by a team of On-Board Train Hostesses — Monica, Rubina, Pooja, Namrata, and Uma.
A heartwarming moment unfolded as the All-Women Operated Vande Bharat Express passed through Matunga Station, India’s first all-women managed station. The Matunga station team greeted the train by exchanging signals with the Train Manager and cheering in celebration.
In another significant move, Central Railway operated a Special Goods Train with an all-women crew from Kalyan to Trombay. The train, carrying 43 wagons with a load of 1,150 tons, was operated by Sangeeta Sarkar (Loco Pilot), Tejaswi Walke (Assistant Loco Pilot), and Rohini Jadhav (Train Manager).
Celebrations extended across various divisions, including Nagpur, where several events were held to recognize the contributions of women employees. 69 outstanding women employees were felicitated for their achievements in cultural, social, literary, and sports fields. Notably, Ajni Station in Nagpur is entirely managed by 22 women personnel, handling tasks such as train operations, booking, ticket checking, security, and signal and telecommunication functions.
In the Bhusaval Division, another Special Goods Train operated with an all-women crew, led by Jyoti Singh (Loco Pilot), Shivani (Assistant Loco Pilot), and Bhagyashree Pimple (Train Manager).
The Pune Division saw the inauguration of the first-ever Women’s Barracks for RPF personnel, providing secure accommodation for female staff working in various locations across the division.
Meanwhile, in the Solapur Division, a dedicated women-led ticket checking team efficiently managed passenger services on the Solapur-CSMT Vande Bharat Express (Train No. 22226/22225).