From India to Guinea: Indian railways to export 150 Bihar-made locomotives to Africa; 10 things to know about the Rs 3,000 crore deal
India is set to make a powerful statement in global railway manufacturing as it is set to began exporting more than 100 high-tech locomotives to West Africa.Built under the ‘Make in India’ initiative in Bihar, these locomotives come equipped with world class facilities to ensure pilot comfort. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off the first export-bound unit this Friday, marking a major milestone for Indian manufacturing.Here are the top 10 things you should know about the locomotives:1. Global collaborationThe locomotives are being manufactured in collaboration between the US based Webtecin collaboration and Indian Railways at its Marhowra Rail Factory near Patna, Bihar. The Marhowra Rail Factory was set up in 2015 under a MoU to build 1,000 powerful freight locomotives in 10 years. Wabtec delivered the first one in 2018, and has since supplied over 700 from this factory.2. Massive dealThe Marhowrah Diesel Locomotive Factory in Bihar will export 150 Evolution Series ES43ACmi locomotives, to support Guinea’s Simandou iron ore project. The order for 150 locomotives is worth over Rs 3,000 crore, secured through global competitive bidding.3. Phased delivery planThe locomotive delivery plan spans across three years. Of the 150 locomotives, 37 will be delivered in this financial year, 82 in the next, and the remaining 31 in the third year.4. Advanced technologyEach 4500 HP locomotive features AC propulsion, regenerative braking, microprocessor-based controls, and a modular architecture for ease of maintenance and upgrades.5. World-class facilitiesEach locomotive meets top-tier emission standards and has an AC cab. They are equipped with fire detection systems and eco-friendly technology. The cabins are modern and ergonomic, with added amenities like a refrigerator, microwave, and waterless toilet system. “The Republic of Guinea asked us to provide all these amenities for the convenience of their train crew,” a Webtec official told PTI.6. Heavy loads and handlingEach locomotive comes with a single cab, two units coupled together can pull up to 100 wagons at top permitted speeds. They are fitted with DPWCS (Distributed Power Wireless Control System) to ensure smooth, synchronised operations and better freight handling.7. Types of tracks at the factoryThe Marhowrah plant houses three track types: broad gauge, standard gauge, and Cape gauge. These tracks in the premises have been laid to support the manufacture and testing of locomotives for diverse international specifications.8. Advanced technologyEach 4500 HP locomotive features AC propulsion, regenerative braking, microprocessor-based controls, and a modular architecture for ease of maintenance and upgrades.9. CustomisationDuring a recent press briefing, Wabtec revealed that it conducted an in-depth study of Guinea’s terrain, climate, and operational requirements before customising the locomotives. Engineers made multiple visits to the West African nation to ensure the design met local needs, including adaptations for standard gauge tracks and extreme weather conditions. Given the region’s harsh climate, the locomotives were customised to help combat the challenging environments.10. Job creationThe Bihar-based factory employs 285 people directly and supports 1,215 more through indirect roles. Across India, over 2,100 individuals are engaged through the joint venture’s wider services.The export deal comes as the West African nation begins work on its biggest iron ore mining project, creating a demand for stronger freight support. This move boosts the Marhowrah factory’s role as a rising global hub for locomotive exports, creating local jobs and highlighting India’s growing manufacturing strength, a sign of Atmanirbhar Bharat driving global infrastructure with innovation and quality.
