The electric locomotive manufacturing facility located in Dahod, Gujarat, is set to begin producing a sufficient number of high-speed freight train engines within the next three years, paving the way for India to export them, according to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. During his recent visit to Gujarat, Vaishnaw toured the manufacturing unit to assess its current status and the progress of the first 9000 horsepower (HP) engine being developed there.
He examined the engine, which is expected to become operational for Indian Railways in the coming months. The foundation for this facility was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in April 2022, with an estimated investment of ₹20,000 crore.
The railways highlight the importance of enhancing freight train speeds, necessitating the introduction of high horsepower and high-speed locomotives. To address this, the Ministry of Railways has initiated the production of 9000 HP high-speed freight locomotives at the Rolling Stock Workshop in Dahod, Gujarat.
As noted in a press release from Western Railway, the Dahod workshop has been upgraded to manufacture these high horsepower (9000 HP) electric locomotives, in collaboration with technological partner Siemens under the Government of India’s “Make in India” and “Make for World” programs, selected through a transparent bidding process.
Vaishnaw emphasized that these locomotives will significantly transform freight transportation across the nation. He remarked that the introduction of high horsepower locomotives will help alleviate congestion on busy tracks by enhancing both the average speed and the loading capacity of freight trains. Railway officials noted that these engines would be capable of hauling cargo loads of up to 4,500 tonnes at a maximum speed of 120 km/h, marking a significant advancement in cargo train operations.
Additionally, the locomotives being produced in Dahod will incorporate a Digital Tracking System, known as Kavach, and will feature environmentally friendly attributes, including a three-phase propulsion system, as highlighted in the press release.
