Indian Railways has made a significant move in the freight transport sector. On May 26, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a new manufacturing centre at the Rolling Stock Workshop in Dahod, Gujarat. This event marks a historic step towards modernising freight transport in India.
The new facility will produce 1,200 state-of-the-art electric freight engines, each with a capacity of 9,000 horsepower. This initiative aligns with the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Make for the World’ campaigns, promoting domestic manufacturing and global outreach.
These advanced engines can easily transport heavy loads of 4,500 to 5,000 tonnes, even under challenging conditions. This will revolutionise freight transport by allowing more goods to be moved with fewer trips, saving time and reducing congestion on busy railway lines.
Traditionally, freight engines had capacities of 4,500 or 6,000 horsepower. The new 9,000 horsepower engines are the most powerful single-unit electric engines developed by Indian Railways. Unlike previous models, which often required multiple units to achieve higher power, these engines offer a unified, high-power solution.
This improvement means that Indian Railways can transport more goods efficiently, decreasing both operational costs and environmental impact. The engines are equipped with cutting-edge IGBT-based propulsion technology, enhancing energy efficiency and performance.
Moreover, these engines are manufactured in a green energy-powered facility, earning a green manufacturing tag. They also feature regenerative braking technology, which sends energy back to the grid when brakes are applied, further reducing carbon footprints.
Safety and comfort are also priorities. The engines are fitted with the ‘Kavach’ system, a homegrown anti-collision technology, and come with air-conditioned driver cabins, reducing noise and vibrations during operations. Each engine is monitored by cameras to enhance security, and the onboard toilets have electronic locks that only open when the engine is stationary, ensuring discipline among the crew.
Dahod’s facility is not just about manufacturing; it focuses on skill development as well. A virtual digital model has been created to train mechanics and drivers, which is crucial for building local expertise. This project has already created many jobs for local youth, and special training modules are in place to enhance the technical skills of the workforce.
In the past, Dahod was a central hub for railway activities, but operations had declined. In 2022, Prime Minister Modi announced plans to restore it as a key railway construction centre. Today, this vision is becoming a reality. The manufacturing centre can produce both broad gauge and standard gauge engines for export, strengthening India’s position in the global railway manufacturing market.
Most of the components for these engines, about 89%, are made in India, supporting the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Make for the World’ initiatives. The 9,000 horsepower engines are set to become central to a new freight transport system, enhancing Indian Railways’ competitiveness and sustainability.
This initiative is expected to bring significant improvements to logistics across industries, reducing transportation costs and increasing supply chain efficiency. The combination of technology, regional development, and a global outlook makes these engines not only beneficial for India but also for the international freight transport landscape.
In conclusion, the launch of these advanced electric freight engines in Dahod is a pivotal moment for Indian Railways. It signifies a commitment to innovation, efficiency, and sustainability, ensuring that India is well-prepared to meet future transportation needs. With these developments, Indian Railways is poised to lead the way in modern freight transport, both domestically and globally.
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