Title - Women man Railway’s Pune Diesel loco shed

Pune: The diesel loco shed of Pune division of Central Railways, a known bastion of the male fraternity, is silently witnessing a revolution – an increasing number of female staffers are becoming an inseparable part of the department.

In the last couple of years, about 35 female staffers have joined the department. The strength of the male workers is 703.

“Earlier women were not very forthcoming when it came to technical work. However, in the past couple of years, a lot of women are seen opting for technical jobs,” said Railways officials.

All these 35 women have passed out from various ITIs and have taken examinations conducted by the Railways to get a job.

Vandana Sathe (25), one of the youngest among the female workers at the diesel loco shed, stated that many people assume women do not like technical work. “However, all 35 of us are thoroughly enjoy our work,” she said.

She added, “I work in the electrical section and have to check the wiring in various components of the loco when it comes for maintenance. This work is very critical and important.” Divisional Mechanical Engineer Sandeep Verma stated that women at the diesel loco shed work from 8 am to 5 pm.