Varanasi Becoming Railway Locomotive Export Hub

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.

Varanasi as a Locomotive Export Hub
- Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW), a public sector unit under Indian Railways, is emerging as a key export hub for railway locomotives.
- On 15 December 2025, BLW dispatched its sixth indigenously manufactured 3300 Horse Power AC–AC diesel-electric locomotive to Mozambique.
- This is part of an export order of 10 locomotives, executed through RITES Ltd., a government enterprise specializing in transport infrastructure.

Global Footprint
- Since 2014, BLW has exported locomotives to Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Mozambique, and supported railway systems in these countries.
- India has also exported metro coaches, bogies, passenger coaches, and locomotives to nations including:
- Europe: UK, France, Spain, Germany, Italy
- Africa: Mozambique, Republic of Guinea, South Africa
- Asia-Pacific & Americas: Myanmar, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Australia, Canada, Mexico

Technical Highlights of BLW Locomotives
- 3300 HP Cape Gauge (1067 mm) locomotives.
- Capable of speeds up to 100 km/h.
- Equipped with driver-friendly features: refrigerator, hot plate, mobile holder, modern cab design.
- Built with indigenous design expertise, aligning with Make in India and Make for the World initiatives.

Strategic Significance
- Strengthens India’s role as a reliable exporter of railway rolling stock.
- Supports partner countries in upgrading rail infrastructure.
- Demonstrates India’s technological self-reliance and expanding presence in the global railway equipment market.

This milestone shows how Varanasi, traditionally known for its cultural heritage, is now also being recognized as a center of industrial and technological excellence in railway manufacturing.