End of a Historic Journey: Surekha Yadav Retires After 36 Years on the Rails
When Surekha Yadav joined the Indian Railways in 1989, the idea of a woman driving a train across India’s toughest routes seemed unimaginable. Railways were long seen as a male-dominated domain—physically demanding, technically challenging, and socially unwelcoming to women. Yet, Surekha refused to be bound by stereotypes. Armed with grit and determination, she went on to become Asia’s first woman train driver, setting in motion a journey that inspired generations.For over three decades, she drove some of India’s most challenging and prestigious trains, from freight carriers to the high-speed Deccan Queen and Vande Bharat, breaking deep-rooted gender barriers.A Journey Rooted in DeterminationBorn in Satara, Maharashtra, in 1965, Surekha grew up in a modest family. After completing her diploma in electrical engineering, she applied for jobs across various sectors. When the Indian Railways opened the post of assistant driver, she seized the opportunity—without realizing she was stepping into history.Her training wasn’t easy. She had to master not only the technical aspects of locomotives but also endure long hours, tough schedules, and skepticism from colleagues who doubted whether a woman could manage the rigors of the job. But Surekha’s discipline, professionalism, and skill silenced critics, paving the way for other women to enter railway operations.Milestones on the TracksOver 36 years, Surekha achieved numerous firsts. She became the first woman to pilot the Deccan Queen Express between Mumbai and Pune, a train considered one of the most challenging due to its steep gradients and sharp curves. Her calm under pressure, commitment to safety, and flawless execution earned her respect across the railway fraternity.In 2011, she created history again when she drove an all-women-staffed train on International Women’s Day, an event that made headlines worldwide and symbolized women’s empowerment in the workplace. She was also honored with several awards, including the National Award for Outstanding Services and recognition from the Railway Ministry for her pioneering role.An Inspiration Beyond the RailsSurekha Yadav’s legacy goes beyond her professional achievements. For countless women, she became a symbol of possibility—a living example that no profession is off-limits. At a time when women were mostly confined to clerical or supportive roles in railways, Surekha proved that they could command engines, lead teams, and thrive in demanding environments.Her career also highlights the evolution of Indian Railways itself, which has steadily moved toward inclusivity. From hiring women loco pilots and guards to launching all-women crewed trains, Surekha’s journey was the spark that ignited systemic change.The Final Stop, But Not the EndOn September 30, 2025, Surekha Yadav will officially retire, concluding a remarkable 36-year career. For her, it is not just about hanging up the boots but also passing on the baton. She has expressed her wish to see more women join railway operations and continue the momentum she started decades ago.Her retirement is both an end and a beginning—the end of one woman’s inspiring journey on the tracks and the beginning of a new era where women are no longer exceptions but equals in India’s vast railway network.A Legacy Etched in SteelAs trains continue to thunder across India’s tracks, Surekha Yadav’s name will remain etched in the history of Indian Railways. She proved that gender is no barrier when courage and determination drive the journey. Her story is not just about driving locomotives; it is about driving change.
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