Diesel Locomotive Factory (DLF) in Marhowra, Bihar, is poised to dispatch its first heavy-haul freight locomotive to the Republic of Guinea in West Africa.
This milestone marks the commencement of a substantial export order, valued at approximately ₹2,000 crore, encompassing 140 Evolution Series ES43ACi diesel locomotives tailored for the TransGuinéen Railway. The inaugural locomotive, unveiled at a ceremony attended by dignitaries from Guinea, India, and the United States, showcases the collaborative efforts of Wabtec Corporation and Indian Railways. This joint venture, established in 2015, has already delivered over 700 locomotives to Indian Railways, underscoring the facility’s manufacturing prowess.
The ES43ACi locomotive, equipped with a 4,500-horsepower Evolution Series diesel engine designed in the United States, is engineered for optimal fuel efficiency and performance in high-temperature environments. Its deployment is integral to the Simandou iron ore project, Africa’s largest mining and infrastructure development initiative, which includes the construction of a 600-kilometre multi-use railway connecting the mine to a coastal port in Guinea. This export venture aligns with India’s “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives, promoting self-reliance and global competitiveness in manufacturing. The successful execution of this contract is anticipated to bolster bilateral relations between India and Guinea, while also enhancing India’s stature in the global railway industry.
The Marhowra facility’s capacity to produce 100 diesel locomotives annually positions it as a key player in meeting both domestic and international demands. As India continues to expand its manufacturing capabilities, such export orders signify the country’s growing influence in global infrastructure projects and its commitment to sustainable industrial development
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