cooch-behar-station-makes-history-with-women-managed-setup

Cooch Behar railway station in north Bengal has created history by becoming the first women-run station in the Alipurduar Division of the North-East Frontier Railway.

 

This pioneering initiative, which coincided with International Women’s Day, marks a significant step towards gender inclusivity and leadership in the railway sector.

 

Abhay Ganapat Sanap, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager of the Alipurduar Division, stated that the initiative aims to honour women’s strength and capabilities.

 

“From ticket examiners and station masters to ticket counter staff and RPF security personnel, every role at the station is now held by women, showcasing their efficiency and competence in managing crucial operations seamlessly. All necessary preparations were completed ahead of this historic day, ensuring a smooth transition of responsibilities,” he said.

 

On the occasion of #InternationalWomensDay, Cooch Behar station, West Bengal, has been proudly declared as an all-women managed station, with frontline operations exclusively managed by Women staff.#IWD2025 #NariShakti_At_Railways #SheBuildsBharat pic.twitter.com/qg0cZxzJad

— Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) March 8, 2025

 

Cooch Behar station, which holds heritage status, is a landmark of historical significance.

 

During the British Raj, it was a prominent stop for royalty travelling from Cooch Behar to Kolkata via present-day Bangladesh.

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Currently, it serves the New Cooch Behar-Bamanhat route and remains one of the 85 stations within the Alipurduar Division.

 

The move aligns Cooch Behar with other women-run stations in Bengal, such as Siliguri Town and Hijli, reinforcing the growing leadership of women in Indian Railways.

 

The railway ministry’s directives to implement this change underscore its commitment to fostering an inclusive work environment that empowers women.

 

A modest yet meaningful ceremony on Saturday marked the station’s transition into an all-women-run facility, celebrating the achievements and potential of female railway personnel.

 

The initiative has been met with enthusiasm across the region, serving as a powerful testament to gender equality and the possibilities that arise when women are encouraged to lead.

 

On International Women’s Day, Cooch Behar railway station stands as a beacon of progress, proving that when women take charge, the journey towards inclusivity and empowerment gains momentum.