Central Railway celebrates International Women's Day with an all-women Vande Bharat crew

Mumbai: Marking International Women's Day on Saturday, the Mumbai-headquartered Central Railway recorded a historic feat when it ran the prestigious and popular Vande Bharat Express Train with an all-women crew. 

Train No. 22223, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus-Sainagar Shirdi Vande Bharat Express, was helmed and managed by an all-women crew making it a historic and inspiring journey. 

The train was steered by Surekha Yadav, Asia’s first woman Loco Pilot, along with Sangeeta Kumari as the Assistant Loco Pilot.

Shweta Ghone served as the Train Manager, ensuring smooth operations throughout the journey.

A dedicated team of women, Travelling Ticket Examiners, were deployed to guide passengers and ensure their comfortable travel.

The team consisted of Head Ticket Examiners:  Anushka K. P and M. J. Rajput, Senior Ticket Examiners, Sarika Ojha, Suvarna Pashte, Kavita Maral and  Manisha Ram.

The All-Women crew included a team of On-Board Train Hostesses ready to serve the passengers. 

This comprised Monica, Rubina,  Pooja,  Namrata and Uma.

The Vande Bharat Express with special All-Women Crew departed from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus at 0620 hrs marking a significant milestone in Indian Railways' commitment to women's empowerment.

“It was a heartwarming sight as the All-Women Operated Vande Bharat Express passed through Matunga station, India’s first All-Women managed station and the entire team of Matunga station exchanged signals with the Train Manager and cheered in celebration,” CR officials said.