In 1988, Surekha Yadav achieved a historic milestone by becoming Asia’s first female locomotive pilot, a position at the time exclusively reserved for men. Growing up in Satara, Maharashtra, Yadav’s journey to becoming a trailblazer in Indian Railways was anything but conventional.
With a degree in electrical engineering, she applied for the position of assistant loco pilot simply out of a fascination with machines. Little did she know that this decision would not only transform her life but also set in motion a revolution in one of India’s most male-dominated sectors. “Though my parents came from a modest background, they were progressive in their thinking. They educated me and that allowed me to work.” “I wondered what to do. But I thought, if I don’t take up the job, someone else will. Since I’ve been selected, I’ll do it,” she says.
From Goods Trains to Iconic Locomotives
Yadav’s initial years on the job involved operating freight trains, where she quickly proved her mettle. The work was physically demanding and came with long hours, harsh weather conditions, and tough terrain. Yet, her dedication and exceptional skills did not go unnoticed. Over time, Yadav rose through the ranks, eventually taking the helm of some of India’s most prestigious trains, including the Deccan Queen, the country’s first super-fast train connecting Mumbai and Pune.
The Pune-Mumbai ghats, known for their steep gradients and sharp curves, presented a unique challenge for any driver. However, Yadav’s steady hand, attention to detail, and nerves of steel enabled her to navigate these difficult terrains with remarkable precision, setting a benchmark for train operations in India.
“You have to watch the signal, the track, the overhead equipment, listen to your colleague, and keep your eyes on the speed – all at the same time. How could I think of my children?” Ms Yadav says. “If your mind drifts for even 30 seconds, even a microsecond, it can be dangerous for everyone on the train.” “My co-workers were great. They never made me feel like I was different because I was a woman. Others might have thought that, but not my colleagues,” she says. “I never imagined I’d drive trains till I became 60,” Ms Yadav says.
A Quiet Revolution
Despite her pioneering status, she remained humble and focused on the task at hand. She never sought the spotlight, letting her work speak for itself. Over the years, her presence in the locomotive’s driver cabin became a powerful statement, one that subtly yet firmly communicated that women belong in all fields, no matter how traditionally male-dominated they may be.
Yadav’s story resonated with countless women, particularly young girls from rural Maharashtra, who saw her as an inspiration to follow their own dreams of working in engineering or public service. Her dedication to her job became a symbol of perseverance, showing that hard work, resilience, and competence matter more than gender.
Mentoring the Next Generation
Throughout her 36-year career, Yadav has not only excelled in her own role but also paved the way for others to follow. She has been a mentor to countless junior staff members, advocating for more women to enter technical and engineering fields. Her legacy is evident in the fact that today, more than 2,000 women are working as train operators in Indian Railways, a number that continues to grow as more women break into the profession.
