Unveiling The Unstoppable Force Behind Pune Metro: 13 Women Leading The Way
In a resounding celebration of female empowerment, Pune Metro’s remarkable women metro operators took center stage during the grand inauguration of the metro’s second phase on August 1st. These incredible women not only marked a milestone for Pune’s transportation system but also illuminated the undeniable power of women in leadership.
Geetanjali Thorat, an exceptional Metro Operator & Station Controller, shared her journey exclusively with Pune Pulse. Hailing from Akola, Geetanjali’s engineering background led her through the corporate maze before she found her true calling. Upon discovering the vacancies at Pune Metro, she seized the opportunity eagerly, transitioning to her role on February 24, 2023. Her family’s sheer delight upon hearing the news mirrored the sentiment of a city on the move.
Apurva Alatkar, another shining star among the Metro Operators & Station Controllers, is a testament to perseverance. Her mechanical engineering roots in Satara were soon overshadowed by a longing for unique endeavors. The allure of Pune Metro captured her aspirations, but the pandemic temporarily dashed her hopes. Undeterred, Apurva’s triumph finally materialized on February 24, 2023. Her family’s elation mirrored the pride of a city riding the rails of progress.
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A Spectacle of Firsts: Apurva Alatkar’s Historic Flag-Off
Notably, Apurva Alatkar made history as the sole metro operator to flag off the inaugural journey from Phugewadi station to Civil Court station and from Garware College station to Ruby Hall Clinic station on August 1st. Her triumph became a symbol of not only personal achievement but also the collective strength of women propelling Pune Metro’s success story.
Women at the Heart of Pune Metro’s Momentum
Behind the scenes, a dynamic team of 13 women Metro Operators & Station Controllers are the heartbeat of Pune Metro’s operations:
- Geetanjali Thorat – Metro Operator & Station Controller
- Apurva Alatkar – Metro Operator & Station Controller
- Pallavi Shelke – Metro Operator
- Sharmin Shaikh – Metro Operator
- Savita Surve – Metro Operator
- Pratiksha Mate – Metro Operator
- Pooja Kale – Metro Operator
- Divya Ramchaure – Station Controller
- Shila Jogdand – Station Controller
- Madhavi Fulsundar – Station Controller
- Mrunal Kalmegh – Station Controller
- Pratiksha Kamble – Station Controller
- Samiksha Dharamthok – Station Controller
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s spirited inauguration marked the commencement of two completed corridors under Pune Metro’s Phase-I – from Phugewadi station to Civil Court station, and from Garware College station to Ruby Hall Clinic station. The vital role played by women metro operators in steering these journeys stands as a testament to their unwavering dedication, resiliency, and undeniable influence.
In a world moving towards equality, Pune Metro’s women operators not only drive trains but also shape the future, proving that true progress comes from diversity and unity.
