India's First Bihar-Made Locomotive Heads to Africa

Patna, May 26 (PTI) — In a landmark achievement, Wabtec and Indian Railways have showcased a groundbreaking development on Monday: the first freight locomotive manufactured in Bihar, which is set to be exported to West Africa next month. This move marks a significant milestone in highlighting the global competitiveness of India's manufacturing and engineering sectors.  

In September last year, Indian Railways announced that the Marhowra manufacturing unit in Bihar would commence exporting locomotives to Africa soon. A senior railway official affirmed, "We have fulfilled our commitments, and this success is a testament to the excellence of Indian manufacturing."  

The first look of the locomotive was unveiled at the Marhowra plant, and its naming ceremony was conducted with the presence of senior Wabtec and Indian Railways officials, alongside representatives from the West African country.  

Founded in 2015 through a public-private partnership between Indian Railways and Wabtec, the Marhowra facility has delivered over 700 locomotives to the Indian Railways over the span of nine years. The plant is an integral part of a broader initiative that also encompasses maintenance sheds located in Roza, Gandhidham, and Gooty.  

In a bid to enhance its capabilities, Indian Railways placed a significant order in 2015 for 1,000 Evolution Series locomotives capable of delivering 4,500 HP to 6,000 HP, to be supplied over an 11-year period, as described by Sujatha Narayan, Senior Vice President and India Region Leader from Wabtec. "This export order highlights the quality and dependability of our products," added Narayan.  

Wabtec company officials disclosed that the export order comprises over 100 locomotives to be delivered over four years. The first two units are currently undergoing rigorous safety checks and are anticipated to be shipped via Mundra Port in Gujarat by June 2025.  

These locomotives have been meticulously customized to suit the specific requirements of the West African country, featuring adaptations for standard gauge tracks and accommodating local environmental conditions. Multiple site visits by Wabtec engineers were conducted to ensure alignment with operational necessities.  

Additionally, this export agreement aligns with the West African country's recent inauguration of its largest iron ore mining project, necessitating enhanced freight capabilities, as noted by Narayan. The company has scaled up its workforce to simultaneously meet the continued delivery demands of Indian Railways alongside this export venture.