Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off India's second most powerful 9000 horsepower railway engine in Dahod, Gujarat, on Monday.
Business: During his Gujarat visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the nation's second most powerful railway engine to the country. In a special ceremony held in Dahod, the Prime Minister inaugurated this state-of-the-art 9000 horsepower electric engine. This is not only a technological revolution for Indian Railways but also a historic achievement towards India's industrial self-reliance under the 'Make in India' initiative.
Dahod Emerges as a Hub for Advanced Railway Engine Manufacturing
This 9000 horsepower locomotive was manufactured at a world-class manufacturing plant established in Dahod, which Prime Minister Modi dedicated to the nation on Monday. The plant, costing ₹21,405 crore, will manufacture a total of 1200 electric engines for Indian Railways in the coming years.
This plant will cater to domestic demand and also produce engines for global export, making India a major hub for railway engine production.
Key Features of the Engine
- Power: 9000 HP
- Speed: 120 km/hour
- Freight Capacity: Capable of carrying up to 5800 tons of freight
- Manufacturer: German company Siemens
- Purpose: To make freight movement in India faster and more efficient
Siemens and Indian Railways Partnership
Under this project, the German company Siemens is responsible for the design, engineering, manufacturing, and maintenance of the engines. Equipped with up to 90% indigenously produced technology, this engine is entirely made in India. Siemens units in Nashik, Aurangabad, and Mumbai manufactured various components for this project, while final assembly, testing, and commissioning were carried out in Dahod.
According to Sunil Mathur, CEO of Siemens Limited, this engine is a significant step towards the Indian government's goal of increasing the railways' share in freight transportation from the current 27% to 45%.
Technical Features that Make it Special
This 9000 horsepower engine is capable of hauling a 5800-ton freight train at a speed of 120 kilometers per hour. This will not only improve the speed of freight transport but also reduce logistics costs, helping India in global trade competitiveness. Special attention has been paid to the comfort of the loco pilot. The engine is equipped with an air-conditioned cabin, modern control systems, and clean toilet facilities, which is extremely convenient for drivers on long routes.
India already possesses a 12,000 horsepower engine called WAG 12, previously considered the most powerful railway engine. This new 9000 horsepower engine is the second most powerful, strengthening Indian Railways' freight network further.
