The historic Jamalpur Locomotive Workshop in Bihar is set to undergo a comprehensive transformation with an investment of ₹350 crore.
This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Railways, aims to elevate the workshop into a Centre of Excellence, enhancing its capabilities in manufacturing, training, and technological innovation. Established in 1862, Jamalpur Workshop holds the distinction of being Asia’s first railway workshop. Over the years, it has been instrumental in producing locomotives, wagons, and cranes, and has played a pivotal role in the development of railway engineering in India. The forthcoming redevelopment plan is poised to further bolster its legacy, aligning with the government’s vision of a self-reliant and technologically advanced railway sector.
The ₹350 crore investment will be channelled into various facets of the workshop’s operations. A significant portion of the funds will be allocated to the Indian Railways Institute of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering (IRIMEE), which is situated within the workshop premises. The institute will see enhancements in its training infrastructure, focusing on areas such as welding, pneumatics, hydraulics, and mechatronics. This development is expected to provide state-of-the-art facilities for technical education, catering not only to railway personnel but also to students from the broader community, thereby fostering skill development and employment opportunities . In addition to the educational upgrades, the workshop’s manufacturing capabilities will be expanded. The foundation stone has been laid for a ₹78.96 crore project aimed at enhancing the capacity for wagon Periodic Overhaul (POH). This expansion is projected to increase the POH capacity from 545 to 800 wagons per month, thereby improving the efficiency and reliability of freight services .
The redevelopment plan also includes the induction of advanced machinery and technology to streamline production processes and improve quality standards. The workshop will continue its legacy of manufacturing critical railway components, including the iconic 140-tonne crane, which was recently handed over to Indian Railways during the minister’s visit. This strategic overhaul of the Jamalpur Rail Factory is expected to have far-reaching implications for the region’s economic and social fabric. By enhancing manufacturing capabilities and providing world-class training facilities, the initiative aims to create a skilled workforce, stimulate local employment, and contribute to the overall development of the Munger district.
The government’s commitment to the modernisation of Jamalpur Workshop underscores its dedication to fostering innovation, self-reliance, and sustainable development within the railway sector. As the project progresses, it is anticipated that Jamalpur will continue to serve as a cornerstone of India’s railway engineering excellence.
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