Marhowra manufacturing unit in Bihar, a joint venture between Indian Railways and Wabtec, has unveiled its first freight locomotive destined for export to West Africa.
The locomotive is scheduled for shipment by June 2025, signalling a significant expansion of India’s rail manufacturing footprint on the global stage. This development underscores the increasing global competitiveness of Indian engineering and production capabilities, as confirmed by senior officials involved in the project. The Marhowra plant, which has produced over 700 locomotives for domestic use since its inception in 2015, now extends its reach to international markets with customised solutions tailored to meet the unique operational and environmental conditions of West African rail networks.
The locomotive’s design includes adaptations for standard gauge tracks prevalent in the importing country, along with adjustments to handle local climate and terrain challenges. Wabtec engineers conducted thorough site visits and collaborated closely with stakeholders to ensure the locomotives meet rigorous safety and performance standards. These efforts reflect a broader commitment to sustainable and resilient rail infrastructure that supports economic development while minimising environmental impact. The export contract involves over 100 locomotives to be delivered over four years, aligning with a major new iron ore mining project in the West African region that requires enhanced freight capabilities. The move also reflects a strategic diversification of Indian Railways’ production portfolio, balancing domestic demands with a growing global presence.
Since the order was placed in 2015, Indian Railways and Wabtec have collaborated closely on the production of the Evolution Series locomotives, which are notable for their fuel efficiency and operational speed. These locomotives are available in variants producing 4,500 HP and 6,000 HP, tailored to meet diverse freight and passenger requirements. The enhanced capabilities contribute to reduced carbon footprints, a key priority for rail operators worldwide. Beyond the Marhowra unit, the initiative incorporates support infrastructure such as maintenance sheds located in Roza, Gandhidham, and Gooty, further consolidating the manufacturing ecosystem. This network of facilities exemplifies an integrated approach to rail asset management, promoting efficiency and sustainability across the lifecycle of locomotives.
Officials from both Indian Railways and Wabtec emphasised that the export order is not just a business milestone but a validation of the quality, reliability, and innovation inherent in Indian rail manufacturing. The collaboration has also necessitated scaling up workforce capacity to meet the dual demands of domestic production and international commitments without compromising delivery schedules. The first two locomotives are currently undergoing stringent safety and performance evaluations before being shipped through Mundra Port in Gujarat. Their successful deployment will pave the way for subsequent shipments, consolidating India’s position as an emerging exporter of advanced rail technology.
This strategic export aligns with broader governmental objectives to foster eco-friendly, gender-neutral, and equitable transport solutions. By extending its engineering expertise internationally, Indian Railways contributes to sustainable infrastructure development that supports global trade while adhering to zero net carbon ambitions. As the Marhowra plant’s first export locomotive embarks on its journey to West Africa, it symbolises a new chapter in Indian manufacturing excellence and international collaboration. This milestone demonstrates how innovation and strategic partnerships can elevate national industries on the global stage, while supporting sustainable growth and connectivity.
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