New Delhi: Wabtec Locomotive Private Limited, a joint venture between Indian Railways and Wabtec, is set to achieve a significant milestone as it expands the capabilities of its Marhowra plant in Bihar to manufacture locomotives for export to Africa. This will mark the first time the plant produces locomotives for a global customer, positioning India as a key player in the international locomotive manufacturing industry.
The Marhowra plant will supply Evolution Series ES43ACmi locomotives, which feature a powerful 4,500 HP engine, to customers in Africa starting in 2025. Known for their superior fuel efficiency and proven performance in extreme temperatures, these state-of-the-art locomotives are designed to operate in challenging environments, making them ideal for export to Africa.
This strategic project is a major step forward in India’s ambition to become a global manufacturing hub under the “Make in India” and “Make for the World” initiatives, part of the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) vision. By entering the international market, the Marhowra plant will not only broaden its footprint but also drive local job creation and foster economic growth by expanding its supplier base.
The success of this initiative is rooted in the fruitful public-private partnership between the Ministry of Railways and Wabtec. Since its inception, the Marhowra plant has produced approximately 650 locomotives for Indian Railways, helping modernize the national fleet. With continuous collaboration, the Ministry of Railways and Wabtec are working to enhance the plant’s capabilities, ensuring its long-term competitiveness in the global market.
Situated on a 70-acre site in Marhowra, Bihar, the plant was established in 2018 to indigenously manufacture 1,000 advanced locomotives for Indian Railways. Employing around 600 people, the plant has consistently delivered 100 locomotives annually, while boosting industrial activity in the state. Now, with its entry into the global export market, the Marhowra plant is poised for even greater achievements on the world stage.