Marhowra Plant to Export Locomotives by 2025

Why in the news?

The Marhowra plant, a joint venture between Indian Railways and Wabtec, will start exporting Evolution Series locomotives to Africa in 2025, boosting India’s manufacturing capabilities.

MARHOWRA PLANT TO EXPORT LOCOMOTIVES BY 2025

Expansion of Marhowra Plant:

  • Joint Venture: Wabtec Locomotive Private Limited, a collaboration between Indian Railways and Wabtec, is enhancing the Marhowra plant’s capabilities.
  • Export Plans: The plant will manufacture Evolution Series ES43ACmi locomotives for export to Africa, marking its first international orders.
  • Product Specifications: The ES43ACmi features a 4,500 HP engine, designed for high fuel efficiency and optimal performance in high-temperature conditions.

Strategic Importance:

  • Global Hub: This initiative positions India as a leading global locomotive manufacturing hub.
  • Support for Initiatives: Aligns with the “Make in India” and “Make for the World” initiatives under the “Atma Nirbhar Bharat” vision.
  • Economic Benefits: Expected to expand the local supplier network and create long-term job opportunities, bolstering the Indian economy.

Marhowra Plant Overview:

  • Location: Situated on 70 acres in Marhowra, Bihar, established in 2018.
  • Production Capacity: Aims to produce 1,000 advanced locomotives for Indian Railways; currently delivers about 100 locomotives annually.
  • Employment and Impact: Employs approximately 600 individuals, significantly enhancing industrial activities in Bihar.
  • Public-Private Partnership: Success attributed to collaboration between the Ministry of Railways and Wabtec, with 650 locomotives already manufactured for Indian Railways.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times