“Machines don’t see gender; they see your strength,” says Surekha Yadav, a sentiment that perfectly encapsulates her remarkable 36-year career as India’s first female train driver. Recently retiring, Ms. Yadav has left an indelible mark on the Indian Railways, driving countless trains across diverse terrains and weather conditions.
When Ms. Yadav began her career in 1989, the role of a train driver was almost exclusively held by men, and she was unaware of this until her training began. Despite the initial shock of being the only woman in her class, her determination saw her through. “If I don’t take up the job, someone else will. Since I’ve been selected, I’ll do it,” she recalled, showcasing her unwavering resolve.
The path was not easy. Train driving demands constant vigilance, quick decision-making, and an ability to manage complex machinery. Ms. Yadav honed her skills on the job, learning to interpret signals, anticipate issues, and react swiftly to ensure passenger safety. She progressed to become a locomotive pilot, the primary operator responsible for the train’s control room.
The demands of the job meant unpredictable hours, missing family events, and facing challenging conditions, including working through pregnancies. However, Ms. Yadav found strength in her family’s support and the camaraderie of her colleagues, who treated her as an equal. “My co-workers were great. They never made me feel like I was different because I was a woman,” she shared.
Now retired, Ms. Yadav hopes her journey will inspire other women to pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles. Her career, marked by perseverance and a commitment to excellence, paved the way for over 2,000 female train operators in India today. On her final day, she bid farewell in style, driving the prestigious Rajdhani Express and receiving a heartfelt send-off from her colleagues.
What will she miss most? The flashing signals, she says, the tiny guiding lights that always showed her the way.
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