Varanasi becoming Railway Locomotive Export Hub

VARANASI: Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) has once again hoisted India’s flag on the international stage in the field of locomotive manufacturing with the successful dispatch of the sixth indigenously manufactured 3300 Horse Power AC–AC diesel-electric locomotive to Mozambique on 15 December 2025.

In a major milestone, BLW has secured an export order for ten 3300 Horse Power AC–AC diesel-electric locomotives for Mozambique. The supply of these locomotives is being executed through M/s RITES under a contract for the manufacture and export of 10 locomotives. The first two locomotives were dispatched in June 2025, followed by the third in September, the fourth in October. The fifth locomotive was dispatched on 12th December, followed by the sixth on 15th December. This export highlights India’s growing capabilities in locomotive manufacturing on the global stage.

These state-of-the-art 3300 HP Cape Gauge (1067 mm) locomotives manufactured by BLW are capable of operating at speeds of up to 100 kmph. They are equipped with international-standard, driver-friendly features such as a refrigerator, hot plate, mobile holder, and a modern cab design, ensuring enhanced comfort and operational efficiency.

BLW, a public sector undertaking under Indian Railways and located in Varanasi, is emerging as a key export hub for locomotive manufacturing. Using its expertise in indigenous design and the manufacture of advanced railway technology, BLW is strengthening India’s presence in global railway markets. Since 2014, BLW has exported locomotives to countries such as Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Mozambique, supporting the development of their railway systems.

Aligned with the vision of Make in India and Make for the World, these exports demonstrate Indian Railways’ ability to design, manufacture and supply rolling stock for different gauge systems prevalent globally. Through such initiatives, Indian Railways is supporting partner countries in upgrading their rail infrastructure while reinforcing India’s position as a reliable exporter of railway rolling stock and related services.

So far, India has exported metro coaches, bogies, passenger coaches, locomotives, and other critical railway equipment to European Nations such as  the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Germany, Italy, and so on. In Africa, the countries include Mozambique, Republic of Guinea, South Africa etc. Other major countries where the equipments exported include Myanmar, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Australia, Canada, and Mexico.

BLW’s achievements in locomotive exports reflect India’s growing technological self-reliance and its expanding footprint in the global railway equipment market.