Engineered in India, Bound for Guinea: Locomotive Export Breaks New Ground

Updated: May 28, 2025 12:01

Image Source: Industrial Products Finder

In a historic milestone, India's Marhowra facility in Bihar—a public-private partnership facility owned by Indian Railways and managed by Wabtec—has manufactured its first heavy-haul freight locomotive for export to West Africa's Guinea. The initiative not only underscores India's increasing capability in locomotive manufacturing but also solidifies its position in being able to support large international infrastructure projects.

Historic Export Milestone

The initial freight locomotive built at the Marhowra plant will be exported to Guinea in West Africa in June 2025 as the plant's first export.
The export is part of an overall export order of more than 100 locomotives for delivery within the next four years.

Strategic Partnership and Manufacturing Excellence

The Marhowra plant, set up in 2015 as a joint venture between Wabtec and Indian Railways, has already supplied over 700 locomotives to Indian Railways since its inception nine years ago.
The facility is part of a large network that has maintenance depots in Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh.

Facilitating Africa's Biggest Mining Project

The locomotives will serve the Simandou iron ore project, Africa's largest mining and infrastructure development project.
The locomotives are specifically designed for the TransGuinéen Railway, which will haul high-grade iron ore from the Simandou mines to the coast for export around the globe.

Technical Features and Specialization

The Evolution Series ES43ACi locomotive is equipped with a 4,500 HP Evolution Series diesel engine, which is known for fuel efficiency and reliability in difficult operating conditions.
Locomotives are tailor-made for standard gauge tracks and designed to accommodate local environmental conditions in Guinea, with site visits by Wabtec engineers ensuring operational suitability.

Economic and Global Impact

The export order highlights the international competitiveness of Indian engineering and manufacturing, making India a significant player in international rail supply chains.
The project is anticipated to spur economic growth in Guinea and enhance economic ties between India and West Africa.

Quotes from Stakeholders

Wabtec and Indian Railways officials stressed the milestone as a witness to product reliability, quality, and success of their public-private venture.

Rio Tinto and SimFer executives underscored the locomotive's role in linking the Simandou project to international markets and introducing new opportunities to Guinea.

Sources: Moneycontrol, The Hindu Business Line, Times of India, The Week

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