32 diesel locomotives are set to be dispatched from India to Sri Lanka, with five of these powerful engines originating from Mumbai.
This shipment follows a formal request from Sri Lanka to bolster its railway operations, reflecting a growing partnership between the neighbouring nations in infrastructure development and sustainable transport solutions. The locomotives earmarked for transfer include 22 units that will be deployed for regular service on Sri Lankan tracks, while the rest are to be preserved or utilised in support capacities. Of the total, 11 locomotives hail from Central Railway zones and six from Western Railway. Mumbai’s Kurla Diesel Loco Shed alone contributes four locomotives to this initiative, complemented by one unit from the Kalyan Diesel Loco Shed. These engines are primarily WDM3A Alco-class diesel-electric locomotives, renowned for their robust performance and reliability over decades of service. First developed in 2003 at the Banaras Locomotive Works in Varanasi and manufactured until 2016, these locomotives have been pivotal in powering premium Indian trains, notably across the Konkan Railway corridor before the widespread electrification drive.
With a powerful 3,300-horsepower engine, they are celebrated for their distinctive chugging sound and ability to navigate challenging terrain with consistency. An official from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), working closely with the Railway Board’s infrastructure directorate, confirmed that the locomotives would be sent in excellent working condition, underlining India’s commitment to supporting its neighbour with sustainable and effective transport infrastructure. The dispatch of these engines comes as part of India’s broader regional engagement strategy, which also includes past exports and gifts of locomotives to countries like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. This gesture is more than just an equipment transfer; it embodies the spirit of collaboration aimed at fostering connectivity and economic growth through enhanced rail networks. The locomotives, which have earned a loyal following among rail enthusiasts for their distinct sound and performance, are expected to continue their legacy by powering Sri Lanka’s railways, supporting both passenger and freight operations.
From an ecological and sustainability perspective, while diesel locomotives are gradually being phased out in favour of electrification in India’s network, they remain critical assets for countries where electrification is yet to be fully realised. The transfer thus supports Sri Lanka’s rail development in an eco-conscious manner, as these well-maintained engines offer a reliable interim solution while the island nation charts its path toward greener rail transport. Railway experts underscore that such exchanges highlight the importance of utilising existing resources optimally before investing in new infrastructure. The export also exemplifies a circular economy approach, wherein machinery with proven service records is refurbished and redeployed to extend operational life cycles, reducing waste and promoting cost-effective development.
Mumbai, as a major rail hub, plays a vital role in this narrative. The city’s locomotive sheds, housing some of India’s most dependable diesel engines, have contributed significantly to the success of rail corridors across the country. Their inclusion in this export underscores the quality and resilience of Mumbai’s rail assets. While the locomotives prepare to embark on their new journey, officials emphasise the ongoing efforts in India to transition towards a net-zero carbon footprint rail network. This includes expanding electrification, increasing the use of renewable energy in operations, and improving fuel efficiency. The export of diesel locomotives, therefore, aligns with a balanced and responsible international cooperation approach, ensuring that while India modernises its railways, neighbouring countries receive support in sustainable growth.
The dispatch of these 32 locomotives, with Mumbai contributing five, not only strengthens the ties between India and Sri Lanka but also serves as a practical example of regional collaboration in railway development. As Sri Lanka prepares to integrate these workhorse engines into its network, this partnership highlights how sustainable infrastructure and shared resources can drive progress in South Asia’s rail connectivity.
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