Women in North Western Railways Excel in Diverse Roles Across Remote Rajasthan
In the remote districts of Jaisalmer and Barmer under the Jodhpur Division of North Western Railways (NWR), women are making significant strides in traditionally male-dominated fields. They serve in a wide array of critical positions, including loco pilots, track maintainers, engineers, guards, station masters, khalasis (helpers), ticket examiners, members of the Railway Protection Force (RPF), nursing staff, medical officers, and mechanical workers at diesel and locomotive sheds.
Empowerment Initiatives and Workforce Statistics
During a recent visit to Jaisalmer on Saturday, NWR General Manager Amitabh highlighted the division's commitment to women empowerment. He noted that around 350 women employees are currently serving in various posts within the Jodhpur Division, with initiatives specifically targeting border and remote railway stations such as Jaisalmer, Barmer, and Balotara.
Amitabh emphasized that many of these women are also accomplished sportspersons, having won medals in national and international competitions, thereby bringing laurels to both the nation and their respective states.
Strengthening Security with Women in RPF
To bolster the security framework within NWR, women battalions have been established in the Railway Protection Force. Currently, 237 women serve in these battalions, playing a pivotal role in the railways' women's safety campaign, 'Meri Saheli'. Amitabh pointed out that the director-general of RPF is also a woman, underscoring the organization's dedication to gender inclusivity in leadership roles.
Challenging Roles and Performance Excellence
Among the 2,864 women employees in NWR, 28 serve as loco pilots, a role considered one of the most demanding due to its requirement for high alertness and readiness for 24x7 operations. Amitabh praised women for performing excellently in this capacity. Additionally, women hold key positions such as 169 track maintainers, 155 pointsmen, 79 station masters, and 17 train managers (guards), demonstrating their versatility and competence across various railway functions.
This comprehensive integration of women into critical railway operations not only enhances workforce diversity but also contributes significantly to the efficiency and safety of railway services in remote regions.
