**Pune Metro Line 3 to be Operated Exclusively by Women Drivers**
In an inspiring move towards women’s empowerment, Pune IT City Metro Rail Limited (PITCMRL) announced on Monday morning that Pune Metro Line 3 trains will be driven exclusively by women. Under a 10-year operations contract awarded to Keolis, all trains on this line will be operated by a team of 100 women metro drivers.
The women drivers have undergone extensive training over three months, preparing them for both day and night shifts. Their training included more than 200 kilometres of supervised driving and comprehensive instruction on safety and well-being, ensuring their long-term integration into the workforce with strong technical expertise.
PITCMRL CEO Anil Kumar highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating,
“This isn’t about running trains but about inspiring the next generation of women to step into roles which were once viewed as conventional by society. Our women training pilots symbolise resilience, discipline, and progress. They are setting a powerful example.”
The women drivers have already demonstrated their skills during successful metro trial runs conducted from Hinjawadi Maan Depot to Balewadi Stadium, covering stations 1 through 10.
**Public Anticipation and the Need for Metro Services**
Residents and commuters eagerly await the launch of Pune Metro Line 3, which is expected to alleviate severe traffic congestion in key areas across Pune District, including Hinjawadi, Baner, Shivajinagar, and Balewadi.
With thousands of people traveling daily to Hinjawadi for work, traffic problems have been escalating due to growing infrastructural demands. The new metro line connecting Maan (Hinjawadi) to Shivajinagar aims to address these issues effectively.
IT employees and local experts have advocated for a phased opening of the Pune Metro to expedite relief, emphasizing the urgent need for this service in the area.
As Pune Metro moves closer to operation, this all-women driver initiative stands out as a beacon of progress while promising a more efficient commute for thousands.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/pune/historic-move-pune-metro-deploys-all-women-drivers-on-shivajinagar-hinjawadi-line-sets-example-of-women-empowerment