India’s Railway Man

1. Sreedharan: A Modern Engineering Icon

This is the story of Dr E. Sreedharan—a 21st century icon similar to Brunel and Sir MV; a man who has changed the face of the railways, and of public transport in India.

Engineering giants. Like Isambard Kingdom Brunel and Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, E. Sreedharan has left an indelible mark on India's infrastructure. His work spans railway lines, bridges, and metro systems, earning him the title of "India's Railway Man." Sreedharan's career demonstrates a commitment to innovation and efficiency, transforming public transportation and inspiring countless engineers.

Key projects. Sreedharan is best known for two monumental projects: the Konkan Railway and the Delhi Metro. The Konkan Railway, a 760-km stretch through challenging terrain, was completed in just seven years. The Delhi Metro, a modern urban transit system, has revolutionized transportation in the capital city and serves as a model for other Indian cities.

Beyond engineering. Sreedharan's impact extends beyond technical expertise. He is revered for his integrity, discipline, and unwavering commitment to completing projects on time and within budget. His leadership style and ethical principles have made him a role model for professionals across various fields.

2. Early Influences: Family, Education, and a Fascination with Trains

My father was very particular about giving all his children a good education.

Formative years. Born in Kerala in 1932, Elattuvalapil Sreedharan's early life was shaped by his family's emphasis on education and his own fascination with trains. Despite witnessing significant historical events, he remained focused on his studies and future career. His father instilled in him the importance of integrity and education, values that would guide his professional life.

Education and early career. Sreedharan excelled in his studies, earning a civil engineering degree and later joining the Indian Railway Service of Engineers (IRSE). His early career involved postings across South India, providing him with diverse experiences in railway construction and maintenance. He also briefly worked at the Mumbai Port Trust, gaining valuable experience in marine engineering.

Early signs of leadership. Even in his youth, Sreedharan displayed leadership qualities, serving as the captain of his college football team. This early experience foreshadowed his ability to lead large teams and manage complex projects later in his career. His passion for trains, combined with his engineering skills and leadership abilities, set the stage for his future accomplishments.

3. Pamban Bridge: A Testament to Ingenuity and Resolve

We salvaged those and worked at breakneck speed to complete the restoration.

Cyclonic devastation. In 1964, a devastating cyclone severely damaged the Pamban Bridge, a vital rail link connecting the Indian mainland to Rameswaram. The task of restoring the bridge was assigned to Southern Railway, with a tight six-month deadline. Sreedharan was entrusted with the project, facing immense pressure to complete it quickly.

Innovative solutions. Sreedharan's team salvaged submerged girders, designed a special pontoon crane, and employed traditional methods with Mappila Khalasis. He also designed a special type of launching gantry for girders. He streamlined the construction process, enabling the team to launch multiple girders per day.

Record-breaking completion. Against all odds, Sreedharan and his team completed the restoration in just 46 days, earning him the Minister of Railways' Award. This achievement established his reputation as an exceptional engineer and a leader capable of delivering under pressure. The Pamban Bridge project showcased his ingenuity, resourcefulness, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

4. Navigating Challenges: Kolkata Metro and Cochin Shipyard

The construction of Kolkata Metro proved to be an unpleasant experience for the whole country because a 17-km line took 22 years to complete and the cost went up by 14 times!

Kolkata Metro. Sreedharan's involvement in the Kolkata Metro project, India's first metro rail experiment, was a valuable learning experience. Despite facing numerous challenges, he gained insights into the complexities of urban transportation and the importance of efficient project management. He also studied the Tokyo Metro extensively, bringing back valuable knowledge and engineering drawings.

Cochin Shipyard. As Chairman and Managing Director of Cochin Shipyard, Sreedharan faced different challenges, including labor disputes and bureaucratic hurdles. He successfully launched India's first big ship, Rani Padmini, but faced opposition from trade unions and the Ministry of Shipping. His tenure was cut short due to disagreements over engine selection, highlighting the political complexities of public sector management.

Lessons learned. These experiences, though challenging, shaped Sreedharan's approach to future projects. He learned the importance of strong leadership, efficient organization, and the ability to navigate political and bureaucratic obstacles. These lessons would prove invaluable in his later successes with the Konkan Railway and the Delhi Metro.

5. Konkan Railway: Overcoming Obstacles to Connect a Region

We brought in an almost paperless type of functioning.

Ambitious undertaking. The Konkan Railway project, a 760-km stretch through the rugged Western Ghats, was a monumental challenge. Sreedharan, as Chairman-cum-Managing Director of the Konkan Railway Corporation Limited (KRCL), faced technical, financial, and political obstacles. He assembled a dedicated team, secured funding, and implemented innovative construction techniques.

Innovative strategies. Sreedharan adopted a decentralized management structure, delegating authority to chief engineers in each zone. He fostered a culture of trust and transparency, empowering his team to make decisions quickly and efficiently. He also embraced new technologies, such as incremental bridge launching and ballastless track, to overcome the challenges of the terrain.

Triumph over adversity. Despite facing controversies, financial crises, and geological challenges, Sreedharan and his team completed the Konkan Railway in just seven years. This achievement connected the western coast of India, reduced travel time, and boosted economic development in the region. The Konkan Railway stands as a testament to Sreedharan's leadership, vision, and ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

6. Delhi Metro: Transforming Urban Transportation

The hardest knock which I received in my 50 years of professional life was the decision of the Government of India to choose the broad gauge for the Delhi Metro instead of the internationally favoured standard gauge, which I felt was the appropriate technology for the metro rail system in Delhi.

Revolutionizing Delhi. As Managing Director of the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Limited (DMRCL), Sreedharan transformed urban transportation in Delhi. He oversaw the construction of a modern metro system that alleviated traffic congestion, reduced pollution, and improved the quality of life for millions of residents. The Delhi Metro became a model for other Indian cities seeking to develop sustainable transportation solutions.

Overcoming challenges. Sreedharan faced numerous challenges during the Delhi Metro project, including bureaucratic hurdles, land acquisition issues, and technical complexities. He also had to contend with political interference, including the controversial decision to use broad gauge tracks instead of the internationally favored standard gauge. Despite these obstacles, he remained focused on delivering a world-class metro system.

Legacy of excellence. The Delhi Metro project was completed on time and within budget, a rare feat for large infrastructure projects in India. Sreedharan's leadership, vision, and commitment to excellence transformed Delhi's transportation landscape and earned him the title of "Metro Man." The Delhi Metro stands as a symbol of his dedication to public service and his ability to deliver transformative projects.

7. Principles for Success: Integrity, Hard Work, and Social Responsibility

The four cardinal pillars of the value culture I practise are: integrity; hard work and commitment; professional excellence; and commitment to society.

Core values. Sreedharan's success can be attributed to his unwavering adherence to a set of core values: integrity, hard work, professional excellence, and commitment to society. These principles guided his decisions and actions throughout his career, shaping his leadership style and inspiring his teams. He emphasized the importance of ethical conduct, transparency, and accountability in all aspects of project management.

Work ethic. Sreedharan is known for his relentless work ethic and his ability to inspire others to achieve ambitious goals. He set high standards for himself and his team, demanding excellence in every task. He also fostered a culture of punctuality, discipline, and dedication, ensuring that projects were completed on time and within budget.

Social impact. Sreedharan believed that infrastructure projects should benefit society as a whole. He prioritized minimizing inconvenience to the public during construction and ensuring that projects were environmentally sustainable. He also emphasized the importance of providing affordable and accessible transportation options for all citizens.

8. Spirituality and Work: Finding Balance and Purpose

If you are able to assume that state of mind and execute the project, I think you can never fail.

Spiritual foundation. Sreedharan's life and work are deeply influenced by his spiritual beliefs. He draws inspiration from the Bhagavad Gita, applying its teachings to his leadership style and project management approach. He believes that a spiritual attitude can help reduce stress and promote a sense of balance and purpose.

Detachment and dedication. Sreedharan emphasizes the importance of detachment from the outcome of one's work, while remaining fully dedicated to the task at hand. This allows him to focus on the process, make sound decisions, and maintain composure in the face of challenges. He also believes in the importance of integrity and ethical conduct, guided by spiritual principles.

Inner strength. Sreedharan's spiritual practice provides him with inner strength and resilience, enabling him to navigate difficult situations and maintain his commitment to excellence. He integrates his spiritual beliefs into his daily life, finding balance and purpose in both his work and his personal pursuits. His life demonstrates the power of spirituality to enhance leadership and promote social responsibility.

9. Controversies and Criticisms: Acknowledging the Other Side

Over time, his critics have insisted that he has consistently been given an unduly free hand, has violated all established norms and despite all that he has been glorified.

Unfettered authority. Despite his many successes, Sreedharan has faced criticism for his leadership style and project management approach. Some critics argue that he has been given too much autonomy, allowing him to bypass established norms and procedures. They also question the safety standards of some of the projects he has overseen.

Broad gauge decision. The decision to use broad gauge tracks for the Delhi Metro, against Sreedharan's recommendation, remains a point of contention. Some argue that this decision added to time and cost overruns and limited the metro's future capacity. Others defend the decision, citing the Indian Railways' uni-gauge policy and safety concerns.

Accountability and transparency. Critics have also raised concerns about accountability and transparency in some of Sreedharan's projects. They argue that the DMRCL has been given too much autonomy, shielding it from scrutiny and oversight. These criticisms highlight the importance of balancing efficiency and innovation with accountability and transparency in public sector projects.

10. A Lasting Legacy: Inspiration for Future Generations

You are very fortunate to be born as children of Bharat Mata.

Role model. E. Sreedharan's life and career serve as an inspiration for future generations of engineers and leaders. His commitment to excellence, integrity, and social responsibility has made him a role model for professionals across various fields. His story demonstrates the power of vision, dedication, and ethical leadership to transform society.

Lessons for the future. Sreedharan's experiences offer valuable lessons for project management, leadership, and public service. His emphasis on planning, organization, and efficient execution can help future leaders deliver successful projects. His commitment to ethical conduct and social responsibility can guide future generations in building a better world.

Enduring impact. E. Sreedharan's legacy extends beyond the physical infrastructure he has built. His impact lies in the values he has championed, the standards he has set, and the inspiration he has provided to countless individuals. His story will continue to inspire future generations to strive for excellence, serve their communities, and make a positive difference in the world.

Last updated: April 4, 2025