Orange Line Metro: Nida Saleh becomes Pakistan’s first female train driver

In a milestone for gender representation in the country’s transport sector, Nida Saleh Malik has become Pakistan’s first female train operator.

She now drives the Orange Line Metro Train in Lahore, one of the country’s busiest urban transit systems.

Trained as a transportation engineer, Nida joined the Lahore Metro system and was recently inducted into the new batch of train drivers based on merit, according to officials. Her appointment marks a significant step in challenging traditional gender roles within a profession historically dominated by men.

Speaking to a private media outlet, Nida said her family was initially hesitant about her career choice but became supportive after seeing her commitment to the role. “Their concerns turned into encouragement when they saw how determined I was,” she shared.

Her role involves operating one of the fully automated trains on the Orange Line, which serves thousands of commuters daily. Officials said she was selected after completing rigorous training and performance evaluations.

Nida’s entry into the field has been welcomed by advocates of women’s empowerment and workplace diversity. Her appointment is seen as a broader push for greater female participation in public service roles across Pakistan.