On the 8th of March, International Women’s Day is celebrated worldwide to honor women’s achievements and raise awareness about gender equality. On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the Central Railway operated train number 22223, Vande Bharat Express, from Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) to Sainagar Shirdi (SNSI) with an all-women crew. It was not just a train ride but a powerful statement about breaking barriers and celebrating the strength of women in a field traditionally dominated by men.
The Mumbai CSMT-Sainagar Shirdi Vande Bharat Express covers a distance of 343 kilometres in just over five hours, with stoppages at important stations such as Dadar, Thane, Kalyan Junction, and Nashik Road. Since its inauguration on February 10, 2023, this train has been offering a faster and more comfortable travel option for both pilgrims and regular commuters.
The Mumbai CSMT to Sainagar Shirdi route is not just a regular service route. It connects the financial capital of India to Shirdi, which is a pilgrimage site visited by millions every year. Shirdi is popularly known for Sai Baba, who lived there from 1858 to 1918.
The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus to Sainagar Shirdi Vande Bharat Express was entirely managed by women staff. This special train departed from CSMT at 6:20 AM. It was run by Asia’s first woman loco pilot, Surekha Yadav, and Assistant Loco Pilot Sangeeta Kumari. The operations for today’s train were overseen by Shweta Ghone.
Vande Bharat usually makes headlines for its advanced technology and speed, but today, it made headlines thanks to the all-women crew who made the entire journey happy and comfortable for the passengers. Today’s crew was not just limited to the driver’s cabin; every staff member, from the train manager to ticket examiners and the onboard catering team, was filled with women staff.
Central Railway has hinted that today’s journey was not just a symbolic event. They believe that it will turn into a larger moment. The success of this initiative can bring a great impact not only on the railway sector but also way beyond that. Today’s initiative got a positive reaction on social media. We hope to see an all-women crew on not just for a single day but permanently on some of the Vande Bharat trains.