By Abul Hasan| THE NEWSMAN OFINDIA.COM| Saleem Ahmad assumed charge as Chairman and Managing Director of Rail Vikas Nigam Limited on 23 December 2025, marking a significant leadership transition at one of India’s most critical railway infrastructure executing agencies. His appointment comes at a decisive phase when RVNL is central to the government’s ambitious rail expansion, modernization, and capacity augmentation agenda.

The Public Enterprises Selection Board had recommended Ahmad for the top post on 4 October 2025, reflecting confidence in his ability to lead a Schedule ‘A’ Central Public Sector Enterprise operating under the Ministry of Railways. His selection underscores PESB’s emphasis on seasoned leadership, strategic vision, and deep domain expertise to guide RVNL through complex, high-value infrastructure programmes.

Before taking over at RVNL, Ahmad served as Director (Projects) at NBCC (India) Ltd, where he played a pivotal role in steering large-scale construction and redevelopment projects. A civil engineer by training, he brings with him over 33 years of experience across diverse segments of the construction and infrastructure sector, spanning urban transport, ports, real estate development, and complex engineering works.

His professional journey includes senior leadership roles at Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Ltd, where he served as Executive Director (Civil). During his tenure with DMRC, he was closely associated with the execution of metro corridors and the implementation of last-mile connectivity solutions—an area that remains crucial for the success of urban mobility projects nationwide. Earlier, he also worked with Mumbai Port Trust, adding maritime infrastructure exposure to his already diverse portfolio.

Ahmad has extensive hands-on experience in executing large and technically challenging projects, including bridges, tunnels, and high-rise residential and commercial buildings. He is also a director on the board of NBCC’s joint venture, Real Estate Development & Construction Corporation of Rajasthan Limited, contributing to strategic decision-making in public sector-led real estate development.

RVNL, since its inception, has been entrusted with the implementation of key railway development works such as new line construction, doubling, gauge conversion, electrification, and metro rail projects, both within India and overseas. Under Ahmad’s leadership, the company is expected to further accelerate project execution, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen its growing global footprint.

Beyond execution, Ahmad has consistently engaged with thought leadership in infrastructure development. He has presented papers on sustainable infrastructure and urban mobility at national and international forums, reflecting his commitment to future-ready and environmentally responsible development.

As RVNL continues to play a frontline role in India’s railway transformation journey, Saleem Ahmad’s blend of technical expertise, administrative acumen, and strategic outlook is expected to add momentum to the organisation’s growth and reinforce its contribution to building a modern, resilient transportation network for the country.