Motherhood on rails: Farida pilots trains, leaving 9-month-old at home

Farida, the sole female train driver (Locomotive Master) at the Lalmonirhat Railway Division, continues to inspire her community. Balancing motherhood with a demanding career, she leaves her 9-month-old baby at home each day to operate trains, proving that no challenge is too great for women willing to break traditional boundaries.

Farida resides in the government quarters of Lalmonirhat Railway Station with her husband, Tutul, and their four children—two daughters and two sons. Originally from Dinajpur, Farida embarked on this unconventional journey in 2014 when she joined the railway division as a loco-master. Her decision was driven by ambition and a desire to embrace challenges, defying societal norms and expectations.

"I chose this job as a challenge," Farida explained. "Since I was young, I wanted to pursue a challenging profession." 

She credits her family’s unwavering support for enabling her to succeed in this male-dominated field. "Without family backing and the mentorship of experienced male drivers, it would have been impossible to enter this profession," she added. 

Despite societal scepticism, Farida remains grateful for those who believed in her potential and gave her the opportunity to excel.

Motherhood meets professionalism

As a mother of four, including her youngest daughter, just 9 months old, Farida exemplifies how women can balance multiple roles without compromising their ambitions. Leaving her infant behind to drive trains across stations, she demonstrates that parenthood need not hinder professional growth. 

Her colleagues admire her dedication. "Even though I leave my youngest child at home to work, they never feel neglected," Farida shared. 

Her love for her job has grown over the years, transforming initial fears into genuine passion. With nearly a decade of service under her belt, Farida has become an integral part of the Lalmonirhat Railway Division.

Overcoming challenges with perseverance

The path to becoming a train driver was fraught with difficulties. From mechanical malfunctions requiring quick fixes to enduring long hours away from home, Farida faced numerous obstacles. Yet, her courage and problem-solving skills earned her respect within the organisation.

"If there's a mechanical fault, I take charge and fix it myself," Farida proudly said. Her ability to handle emergencies and maintain professionalism has left railway authorities deeply impressed. 

Kazi Suman, Divisional Loco In-Charge of Lalmonirhat Railway Division, praised her efforts: "Women like Farida are showing that nothing is impossible for women in any profession. With courage, perseverance, and confidence, every barrier can be overcome."

Pioneering change in society

Farida's story reflects broader changes in Bangladesh, where women are increasingly stepping into traditionally male-dominated fields. 

According to Kazi Suman, "Women are no longer confined to their homes. They are contributing significantly to the economic and social development of society." 

By excelling in her role, Farida challenges stereotypes and paves the way for future generations of women in transportation.

Her success highlights the importance of creating inclusive environments for women in all professions. With proper training, mentorship, and support systems, more women can thrive in roles previously considered out of reach.

A beacon of hope

Farida's journey inspires countless women across the nation. At a time when discussions around women empowerment dominate public discourse, her story serves as a powerful reminder of what women can achieve with determination and support. Whether managing household responsibilities or driving locomotives, Farida proves that women are capable of multitasking effectively while excelling professionally.

By starting a new chapter at Lalmonirhat Railway Station, Farida sends a clear message: gender should never define capability. Through her hard work and commitment, she advocates for equal opportunities in every sphere of life. For Farida, driving trains is not merely a job—it is a symbol of breaking barriers and empowering women everywhere.