Women’s Day: In A First, All-Women Crew Runs Vande Bharat Express From CSMT To Shirdi

all women Vande Bharat

In a landmark move, the Vande Bharat Express from CSMT to Shirdi was operated entirely by an all-women crew for the first time ever! According to the Hindustan Times, train No. 22223 CSMT – Sainagar Shirdi Vande Bharat Express departed from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus at 6.20 AM on March 8, International Women’s Day.

All-Women Crew Runs Vande Bharat Express For The First Time

Image Courtesy: X/Central_Railway

In a landmark move, the Vande Bharat Express from CSMT to Shirdi was operated entirely by an all-women crew for the first-time ever! According to the Hindustan Times, train No. 22223 CSMT – Sainagar Shirdi Vande Bharat Express departed from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus at 6.20 AM on March 8, International Women’s Day.

The loco pilot, assistant loco pilot, train manager, ticket examiners, and on-board catering staff, every aspect of the journey was managed by women. Central Railway took to X (formerly Twitter) to share the news and called it a “pioneering moment for women in Railways”.

This initiative not only celebrates the strength and dedication of women in Indian Railways but also sets a powerful precedent for greater gender representation in the sector. This step aligns with Indian Railways’ broader commitment to empower women and create more inclusive employment opportunities.

Also Read: Women’s Day: Curly Tales Revamped Deepa Aunty’s Vada Pav Stall In Kandivali To Honour Her Hard Work

More About The Ladies Operating The Train

As per reports, the all-women Vande Bharat was piloted by Asia’s first woman loco pilot, Surekha Yadav. The assistant loco pilot on the train was Sangeeta Kumari. Shweta Ghone oversaw train operations of this Vande Bharat journey. Furthermore, a dedicated team of women Travelling Ticket Examiners (TTEs) was also deployed on the train. This team includes Anushka KP, MJ Rajput, Sarika Ojha, Suvarna Pashte, Kavita Maral, and Manisha Ram.

Also Read: CT Exclusive: Bold, Creative, And Unstoppable: Meet 9 Women Founders Who Are Shaping The F&B World

Kudos to Indian Railways for rolling out an all-women crew Vande Bharat Express on Women’s Day. Share your two cents on this initiative in the comments.

Cover Image Courtesy: X/Central_Railway

For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.
Tashika Tyagi: Good coffee, charming cafes, indulgent desserts, and Indian street - these are just a few things Tashika can never say 'no' to! When she’s not scouting out new spots to explore or eat at, you'll likely find her experimenting with Instagram recipes in the kitchen or binge-watching a K-Drama.