Lucknow,

27 May (HS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the Loco

Manufacturing Shop at the Rolling Stock Workshop in Dahod, Gujarat, resulting

in a significant increase in freight mobility for Indian Railways. This event represented a watershed moment in

the continuous evolution of freight transport.

The factory, which will create 1,200 cutting-edge electric freight

locomotives with a formidable 9000 HP capacity, exemplifies India's engineering

expertise and economic ambitions. At the

dedication ceremony, the first electric locomotive from this workshop was

ceremoniously waved off, ushering in a new age in freight transportation marked

by faster speeds, more hauling power, and a strong commitment to

sustainability. With the ability to haul 4,500 to 5,000 tonnes even on steep

gradients, these locomotives are set to be game-changers in heavy-duty freight

movement.

Proudly built under the Make in

India initiative, these locomotives are equipped with advanced IGBT-based

propulsion technology, ensuring superior energy efficiency and operational

performance. Together, these features position Indian Railways at the forefront

of modern, reliable and eco-friendly freight logistics.

Power That Transforms Freight

Logistics: The 9000 HP locomotive is the most powerful single-unit electric

engine ever developed for Indian Railways. Until now, freight locomotives have

typically operated at 4500 or 6000 HP capacities. While 12,000 HP engines do

exist, they are created by coupling two 6000 HP units. In contrast, the

Dahod-built locomotive offers a unified, high-powered solution that can haul

significantly longer and heavier freight trains with ease. This leap in

capacity means fewer trips are needed for the same volume of goods, resulting

in faster turnaround times, reduced congestion and improved freight efficiency.

Reducing Congestion, Lowering Costs: The increased hauling power of the 9000 HP

locomotive offers a solution to one of Indian Railways' biggest challenges:

congestion on high-density freight routes. With fewer locomotives required to

pull heavier loads, rail traffic can be optimised, thereby easing pressure on

busy corridors. Moreover, by replacing multiple smaller engines with one

high-performance locomotive, Indian Railways stands to reduce operating costs,

manpower requirements and energy consumption. These gains will ultimately

translate into lower logistics costs for industries, contributing to more

competitive pricing and streamlined supply chains.

Reviving Dahod: A Regional and National Asset:

The decision to manufacture these advanced locomotives in Dahod is not just a

strategic industrial move, it is a revival of the region’s railway heritage.

Once a major hub for railway works, Dahod had seen a decline after key railway

work was shifted elsewhere. In 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi envisioned

Dahod’s resurgence as a railway manufacturing powerhouse. Today, that vision

has materialised with the setting up of a world-class facility in partnership

with Siemens India, selected through a transparent tendering process.

The factory is equipped to produce both Broad

Gauge locomotives for Indian Railways and Standard Gauge locomotives for

export. This dual capability strengthens India’s positioning in the global rail

manufacturing market. With 89% of the components made in India, the project

aligns perfectly with the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Make for World’ visions.

High-quality, cost-effective production makes these locomotives highly

exportable, opening new doors for India in international railway supply chains.

Green Manufacturing, Cleaner Future: What sets the 9000 HP locomotive apart is its

deep integration of sustainability. The manufacturing process itself is powered

by green energy, earning the facility a Green Manufacturing tag. The locomotive

design includes regenerative braking, which feeds electricity back into the

grid when brakes are applied, further reducing the carbon footprint. These

features make the locomotive a strong contributor to India's climate

commitments and environmental goals, moving the nation closer to a greener

future in transportation.

Safety, Comfort and Smart Engineering: From factory-fitted Kavach (India’s indigenous

train collision avoidance system) to modern driver cabins with

air-conditioning, low noise and minimal vibration, the 9000 HP engine is

engineered with safety and comfort in mind. Toilets feature electronic locks

that can only be accessed when the engine is stationary, ensuring operational

discipline. Onboard cameras on all sides provide enhanced monitoring and

security.

Training for Tomorrow: A highlight of the Dahod facility is its focus

on skill development through immersive training technology. A virtual digital

model of the locomotive has been developed to enhance training for mechanics

and drivers. Using VR headsets, trainees can interact with a highly realistic

simulation of the locomotive, allowing them to explore and familiarise

themselves with every component in a safe, immersive environment.

Employment, Empowerment, and Skill Development:

Around 85% of the jobs created though

the infrastructure development are held by local youth. Skill development is

embedded into the project, with training modules designed to upgrade the

technical capabilities of the workforce. The factory’s presence is already

catalysing infrastructure development and ancillary industries in the region,

driving long-term economic growth.

The 9000 HP locomotive will turn out to be the

linchpin of a bold new freight ecosystem. Its power, efficiency and design

sophistication promise to make Indian Railways more competitive, more

sustainable and better equipped for future demands. By combining the strengths

of technology, regional development and global vision, the Dahod-built

locomotive is set to redefine the trajectory of freight transport, not just in

India, but on the world stage.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi