The locomotive engines manufactured in Marhaura, Saran district, Bihar, are set to operate not just on Indian railways but also worldwide. This marks the first instance of a Bihar-built engine being exported internationally. This factory, embodying Prime Minister Modi’s ‘Make in India’ vision, is now promoting the mantra of ‘Make in Bihar – Make for the World.’ The engines are destined for Guinea, a West African nation.
This represents a significant achievement for ‘Make in Bihar.’ The Marhaura factory is a joint venture between Wabtec Inc. and Indian Railways, with Wabtec holding a 76% stake and the Railways 24%. The unit commenced operations in 2018 and has produced 729 powerful diesel engines to date, including 545 engines of 4500 HP and 184 engines of 6000 HP. A deal for 140 engines worth approximately 3000 crore was finalized following a recent visit by three ministers from Guinea. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off the locomotives.
The unit, spread over 226 acres, is named KOMO. As exports increase, the factory is also expanding its production capacity. The plant is poised to become a global locomotive manufacturing hub, significantly increasing its output. Approximately 40-50% of the components are sourced from various Indian states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Delhi, and Jamshedpur, while some specialized engine parts are imported from the United States.
According to railway information, 37 locomotives will be exported this fiscal year, 82 in the next, and 31 in the third year. All these locomotives will feature AC cabs. Each locomotive will have a single cab, and two locomotives will be able to haul the weight of 100 wagons at the maximum allowable speed. The Marhaura factory in Bihar directly employs 285 people and indirectly provides employment to 1215 people. In addition, over 2100 people across the country are working for the joint venture for services and other tasks.