Senior Loco Pilot Sijina (right) and Assistant Loco Pilot Krishnaveni are part of the all-women crew that operated the Mysuru-Jaipur Superfast Express to mark International Women’s Day on Saturday.
| Photo Credit: M.A. SRIRAM

Divisional Railway Manager Shilpi Agarwal flagging off the Mysuru-Jaipur Superfast Express operated by an all-women crew to mark International Women’s Day in Mysuru on Saturday.
| Photo Credit:
M.A. SRIRAM

The Mysuru Division of the South Western Railway operated an all-women crew service to mark International Women’s Day on Saturday.

Train No.12975 Mysuru-Jaipur Superfast Express was entirely handled by a women crew, which included senior loco pilot Sijina and assistant loco pilot Krishnaveni. The other crew members include train manager Kasi Monika Sai, travelling ticket examiners Thippavva Sannakki and Rajeshwari, Deputy Station Manager Nagamani Prasad, and Station Superintendent Vibha Athaghara.

The train was flagged off by Divisional Railway Manager Shilpi Agarwal, and the authorities said that though symbolic, it reinforces the growing presence of women in railway operations.

Ms. Agarwal said it also was a demonstration of encouragement for women in the railways. “The train was managed by an efficient team of women professionals, showcasing their capability and expertise in key operational roles,” she said.

In addition, a health camp was also organised to mark the celebrations on Friday, indicating the focus on the well-being of the women workforce in the railways.

The camp, coordinated by the Personnel Department in collaboration with Railway Hospital Mysuru, offered essential health screenings, including breast cancer screening and bone mineral density testing. According to the authorities, these services addressed critical health concerns affecting women.

This initiative aimed to provide medical check-ups to over 250 women employees, including contractual staff, ensuring access to vital healthcare services and promoting overall well-being.

“It underscored South Western Railway’s commitment to supporting the health and empowerment of its women workforce,” the authorities added.

Girish Dharmaraj Kalagonda, Divisional Commercial Manager of Mysuru Division, said the above initiatives highlighted the increasing participation of women in critical roles within Indian Railways, breaking stereotypes and setting a benchmark for future generations.

It also emphasised South Western Railway’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce, he said.