Jamshedpur: In a major push to enhance the speed of passenger trains and the freight-carrying capacity of goods trains, Indian Railways has announced plans to manufacture 1,500 high-capacity engines by the year 2025-26. The Railway Board has entrusted the task of engine manufacturing to four major companies based in Chittaranjan, Banaras, Patiala and Dankuni.
This move is expected to significantly benefit the Tatanagar and Chakradharpur divisions, boosting the transportation of minerals, coal, cement and steel.
Breakdown of engine manufacturing orders
The Railway Board has ordered the following high-performance engines:
- Chittaranjan:600 engines (WAG 9H and WAG 9 Twin models)
- Banaras:500 engines (WAG 9H and WAP 7 models)
- Patiala:300 engines (WAG 9H and WAP 7 models)
- Dankuni:100 engines (WAG 9H model)
With these additions, the South Eastern Railway Zone, which includes Tatanagar, Santragachhi, Bokaro and Bandamunda, is expected to receive over 300 new engines.
Enhanced freight capacity
The railway is preparing to increase its freight-carrying capacity to 3,000 metric tonnes. To achieve this, improvements are underway on railway lines, yards and loading sheds. The new engines, coupled with specially designed wagons, will ensure seamless transportation of goods from loading points to ports, meeting the demands of industries and businesses.
Currently, the Tatanagar New Electric Loco Shed houses 260 engines, while 1,419 engines are distributed across the South Eastern Railway Zone. The introduction of the new engines will resolve the issue of engine shortages, particularly for transporting iron ore and finished goods.
Focus on WAG 9H and WAG 9 twin models
The WAG 9H and WAG 9 Twin models are specifically designed to enhance the operational efficiency of freight trains. Currently, to manage heavy loads, railways are forced to deploy engines at both the front and rear of trains. The powerful new engines will eliminate this need, increasing both speed and efficiency.
Benefits for passenger trains
The new 100cc engines will also improve the performance of long-distance passenger trains, ensuring faster travel and reducing delays.
Economic impact
Experts highlight that the initiative will have a positive impact on freight operations, leading to increased revenue for the railways. As the demand for powerful engines continues to rise, the new models will streamline operations, boost freight traffic and improve passenger train services.
The Railways had previously ordered 2,360 engines in April 2023, which are expected to be delivered by 2024-25. The latest initiative aligns with the Railways’ long-term strategy to modernize its fleet and meet growing transportation demands.
