Meet Surekha Yadav: Asia's First Woman Loco Pilot Operates Vande Bharat Express

Surekha Yadav, renowned as Asia's pioneering female loco pilot, achieves another milestone by steering the Vande Bharat Express, marking a historic moment in railway history.

Surekha Yadav, recognized as Asia's first woman loco pilot, has once more etched her name in the annals of railway history. Renowned for breaking barriers, Yadav recently became the inaugural female operator of the newly-introduced semi-high-speed Vande Bharat Express train. The Central Railways proudly announced this momentous achievement, solidifying Yadav's legacy as a trailblazer in the industry.

Operating the semi-high-speed train on the route between Solapur station and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) in Mumbai, Yadav exemplified her unparalleled skill and expertise. Departing from Solapur station promptly on March 13, the journey concluded with the Vande Bharat Express arriving at CSMT five minutes ahead of schedule, a testament to Yadav's proficiency and dedication.

In recognition of her groundbreaking feat, Yadav was felicitated at platform number 8 at CSMT, where her remarkable journey was celebrated. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav lauded Yadav's achievement, emphasizing the empowerment of women in the railway sector with the hashtag #NariShakti.

Hailing from Satara in western Maharashtra, Yadav's illustrious career began in 1988 when she became India's first female train driver. Over the years, she has garnered numerous accolades at both the state and national levels for her remarkable contributions to the field.

The Central Railway's introduction of two Vande Bharat Express trains on the CSMT-Solapur and CSMT-Sainagar Shirdi routes, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 10, 2023, underscores the nation's commitment to advancing rail infrastructure and technology.

Yadav's journey to becoming the first woman to operate the semi-high-speed Vande Bharat Express is a testament to her unwavering determination and pioneering spirit. As she continues to inspire generations with her groundbreaking achievements, Yadav's legacy serves as a beacon of empowerment and progress in the railway industry.

Reference:

www.indiatoday.in

indianexpress.com