India’s railway sector has reached significant milestones in the financial year 2024-25, solidifying its position as a global leader in freight transportation and locomotive manufacturing.
In terms of freight capacity, India now ranks second globally, surpassing both the United States and Russia. The country achieved a freight loading of over 1.61 billion tonnes during the fiscal year, marking the fourth consecutive year of record-breaking performance. This achievement underscores the efficiency and capacity of Indian Railways in handling large volumes of goods, contributing to the nation’s economic growth and reducing pressure on road transport. The surge in freight capacity is attributed to the ongoing development of Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs), which are designed to facilitate the smooth and uninterrupted movement of goods trains. These corridors aim to enhance the efficiency of freight operations by segregating them from passenger services, thereby reducing congestion and improving overall service quality.
Simultaneously, India has emerged as the world’s largest manufacturer of locomotives. In the fiscal year 2024-25, Indian Railways produced a record 1,681 locomotives, surpassing the combined output of the United States and Europe. This achievement reflects the success of the ‘Make in India’ initiative, which has bolstered domestic manufacturing capabilities and reduced dependence on imports. The production of these locomotives is distributed across several manufacturing units, with Chittaranjan Locomotive Works leading with 700 units, followed by Banaras Locomotive Works with 477 units, and Patiala Locomotive Works with 304 units. The remaining units were produced at Madhepura and Marhowrah units in Bihar. A significant portion of these locomotives, approximately 1,047 units, are WAG-9/9H heavy-duty electric freight locomotives, highlighting India’s focus on enhancing freight transport capabilities.
These developments are part of a broader strategy to modernize and expand India’s railway infrastructure. The Ministry of Railways is actively working to replace older coaches with new, state-of-the-art LHB coaches over the next three years, aiming to improve passenger comfort and safety. Additionally, efforts are underway to establish India as a leading exporter of railway equipment, further integrating the country into the global railway supply chain. The achievements in locomotive production and freight capacity are expected to have a positive impact on India’s economy. The railway sector directly contributes significantly to the nation’s GDP and employment, with broader economic benefits through enhanced logistics and transportation efficiency.
Looking ahead, the continued development of DFCs, coupled with advancements in locomotive manufacturing and infrastructure modernization, positions Indian Railways for sustained growth and global competitiveness. These initiatives not only enhance the efficiency and capacity of the railway sector but also contribute to India’s broader goals of economic development and industrial self-reliance. As India continues to strengthen its railway sector, the focus remains on sustainability, innovation, and global integration, ensuring that Indian Railways remains a key driver of the nation’s economic progress.
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