Saleem Ahmad appointed as new CMD of Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL)

New Delhi, India (Metro Rail Today): In a key leadership development in India’s transport infrastructure sector, the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) has recommended Saleem Ahmad, currently serving as Director (Projects) at NBCC India Ltd, for the post of Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL).

RVNL is a Schedule 'A' Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Railways, tasked with executing critical railway development projects including construction of new lines, gauge conversion, track doubling, electrification, and metro infrastructure. The CMD post is one of the most strategic leadership roles in India’s railway modernization mission.

The PESB selection underscores the emphasis on experienced and visionary leadership to steer RVNL through its ambitious national and international expansion plans.

“This selection reflects the growing need for transformational leadership in India’s infrastructure PSUs. With his proven track record, Mr. Saleem Ahmad is expected to bring a results-driven, forward-thinking approach to RVNL,” said Mrs. Mamta Shah, MD & CEO of Urban Infra Group. “RVNL is poised to play a critical role in the next phase of rail infrastructure development.”

A Leader with Proven Experience

Ahmad brings with him a wealth of experience from NBCC India Ltd, where he played a pivotal role in executing large-scale infrastructure and redevelopment projects across India. His career has been marked by strategic insight, project execution expertise, and a deep understanding of public sector governance and planning.

At RVNL, his leadership is expected to accelerate:

• Speedy implementation of rail and metro infrastructure projects

• Expansion of RVNL’s footprint in international railway construction

• Adoption of cutting-edge project management and engineering technologies

• Strengthening of public-private partnership (PPP) frameworks in railway infrastructure

What’s Next?

The PESB’s recommendation will now be sent to the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) for final approval. Upon clearance, Saleem Ahmad will assume charge as CMD, succeeding in leading one of India’s most crucial railway development arms into a new era of modernization, digital transformation, and infrastructure innovation.

RVNL was recently granted Navratna status, adding to its strategic importance and giving it greater financial and operational autonomy to take on complex, large-scale projects in India and abroad.

With Saleem Ahmad’s expected appointment as CMD, RVNL is set to gain a dynamic and experienced leader at a time when India’s infrastructure sector is witnessing unprecedented growth. His leadership is likely to steer the organization toward faster project delivery, innovation in construction methods, and greater global engagement, further cementing RVNL’s role as a central pillar in India's railway transformation journey.