From Safety Leadership to Strategic Operations Role
Before taking over the new assignment, Shri Hari Shankar Verma served as Director General (Safety), Railway Board. During his tenure, Indian Railways witnessed notable improvements in its safety performance. With a strong emphasis on process-driven reforms, monitoring mechanisms, and systemic accountability, the number of consequential train accidents was significantly reduced.
His role as Director General (Safety) came at a time when Indian Railways was intensifying efforts to enhance passenger safety and operational reliability. Officials credit his leadership for strengthening safety audits and fostering a culture of preventive action across zones.
Distinguished Career Across Key Railway Zones
Over nearly four decades of service, Shri Verma has held several critical operational and administrative positions across multiple railway zones. His assignments include Additional Divisional Railway Manager of Central Railway in Mumbai and Divisional Railway Manager of Salem Division under Southern Railway.
He has also served as Chief Passenger Traffic Manager of Central Railway, Mumbai, and Principal Chief Operations Manager of South Western Railway, Hubli. In each of these roles, he is credited with improving operational efficiency, passenger services, and coordination across departments.
Academic Leadership and Management Expertise
In addition to field operations, Shri Verma has played a key role in capacity building within Indian Railways. He served as Director General of the Indian Railways Institute of Transport Management (IRITM), Lucknow, where he contributed to training senior railway officers in modern management practices.
His exposure to global best practices is further strengthened by international training programs in management conducted in Singapore, Malaysia, and Italy. These experiences have shaped his approach toward data-driven decision-making and institutional reforms.
Awards and Recognition
Shri Hari Shankar Verma’s contributions have been formally recognized through multiple honours. He has received the prestigious Hon’ble Railway Minister Award on two occasions and several commendations at the General Manager level during his service.
These awards reflect his consistent performance in managing complex railway operations and implementing reforms that have long-term institutional impact.
Key Expectations from the New Role
As Member (Operations and Business Development), Shri Verma will play a pivotal role in shaping policies related to train operations, capacity utilization, business strategies, and service delivery. The position is crucial as Indian Railways continues its push toward modernization, efficiency, and enhanced passenger experience.
Industry observers believe his deep understanding of operations and safety will help align business development goals with operational realities, ensuring sustainable growth for the national transporter.
