Railways eyes exports for repurposed diesel locomotives

11 Nov 2024 CW Team

As Indian Railways accelerates its network electrification, it is looking to repurpose its soon-to-be-retired diesel locomotives for export markets, particularly targeting African nations. RITES, a railway public sector unit, is collaborating with the Railway Ministry’s design team to overhaul diesel locomotives, which still have a serviceable life of 15-20 years, to meet export demands.

RITES has secured two export orders for refurbished Indian locomotives from mineral and steel sectors in South Africa—one valued at Rs 350 million and another at Rs 500 million, each for three locomotives. The orders vary based on factors like locomotive horsepower and remaining operational lifespan.

"African countries rely heavily on rail networks for mineral transport, making our secondhand locomotives an affordable solution," noted RITES Chairman Rahul Mithal, comparing the arrangement to purchasing a used car.

One key challenge is adapting India’s broad gauge (1,676 mm) locomotives to Africa’s Cape Gauge (1,067 mm) network, prevalent in over a dozen African nations. RITES plans to purchase six locomotives from Indian Railways and modify the bogies, wheels, and underframe to fit the Cape Gauge standard. This marks the first time gauge conversion is being attempted for in-service locomotives, which could open significant export revenue potential.

RITES, currently finalising the design for these modifications, expects approval within 4-6 months. With 10,238 electric and 4,543 diesel locomotives as of last year, Indian Railways anticipates a steady pipeline of surplus diesel engines as electrification progresses, offering an opportunity for RITES to expand into the export market and drive revenue growth. (The Hindu)

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