With a rich legacy of innovation and an unwavering commitment to sustainability, Hitachi Rail STS India is at the forefront of revolutionizing the country’s rail networks. Under the guidance of Director and Head Manoj Kumar Krishnappa, the company is shaping the future of transportation in India and contributing to the global push for a greener, more sustainable world.
Transforming India’s Railways for a Sustainable Future
As the world pivots towards more sustainable practices, overhauling rail networks has become one of the most significant challenges. Rail systems, which span incredible lengths and support hundreds of thousands of carriages, rely heavily on electricity, which is still generated from non-renewable sources.
This dependency must be addressed if rail is to thrive in the 21st century. India’s rail sector is poised to play a critical role in this global Transformation. The International Energy Agency predicts that by 2050, India will account for nearly 40 percent of the world’s total rail activity. This makes the country’s transition to sustainable rail infrastructure essential. Indian Railways has already set an ambitious goal to replace its entire fleet of internal combustion engines with electric alternatives by 2030, marking a significant step towards achieving net-zero emissions.
A Legacy of Firsts: Hitachi Rail’s Impact in India
Hitachi Rail STS India has pioneered advanced technology and innovation in the Indian rail sector. The company’s history is steeped in a tradition of firsts, beginning in 1853 when it was founded as Gio. Ansaldo & C. in Italy. Over the decades, through mergers and acquisitions, it evolved into Ansaldo STS before being acquired by the Japanese conglomerate Hitachi in 2019.
In India, Hitachi Rail STS introduced electronic interlocking to Indian Railways in 2002, a groundbreaking innovation that significantly enhanced train safety and operational efficiency. The company has also been instrumental in introducing the Mumbai Monorail and completing the 29-kilometer Noida- Greater Noida Metro project in just 24 months. These achievements underscore Hitachi Rail’s commitment to driving progress in India’s rail sector.
One of the company’s most notable projects is the semi-high-speed Gatimaan Express, which runs between Delhi and Agra on Hitachi signaling technology. Additionally, Hitachi Rail has completed India’s only centralized traffic control project and executed Asia’s most significant electronic interlocking network with 800 routes at Kharagpur Yard, later surpassing this record with 973 routes at Juhi Yard in Kanpur.
Expanding Horizons: Global Influence and Local Impact
While Hitachi Rail’s innovations have left an indelible mark on India, the company’s influence extends far beyond the nation’s borders. In late 2022, Hitachi Rail won a contract to enhance railway lines in the Philippines with digital signaling. In Australia, the company is leading the implementation of the AutoHaul project—a driverless method of long-distance heavy freight—in collaboration with technology firm Rail Vision and mining giant Rio Tinto. These international projects highlight Hitachi Rail’s ability to deliver cutting-edge solutions globally. However, the company’s commitment to sustainability remains a cornerstone of its operations, both in India and abroad.
Leading the Way in Sustainable Urban Transportation
India’s rapid urbanization has made metro systems a vital component of the country’s transportation infrastructure Hitachi Rail has been at the forefront of this urban transportation projects nationwide. The company’s expertise in communication-based train control (CBTC) and automatic train operation (ATO) has made it a trusted partner for some of India’s most significant metro initiatives. Among these is the 120-kilometer Chennai Metro, one of the most extensive metro projects in the world, valued at approximately ₹1,660 crore (US$200 million).
This project exemplifies Hitachi Rail’s ability to take on massive infrastructure challenges crucial for urban mobility while aligning with the company’s sustainability goal. Another landmark project is India’s first underwater Metro Rail in Kolkata, a venture testament to Hitachi Rail’s innovative spirit. The East-West Metro project, distinguished by its unique underwater trajectory, marks the dawn of a transformative era in urban transportation. Connecting key hubs like Howrah, Sealdah, and Sector V, the metro is expected to serve an estimated daily ridership of one million passengers, offering a sustainable, cost-effective, and convenient alternative to traditional urban transport.
The Journey Through Jammu & Kashmir: A Testament to Resilience
Hitachi Rail’s commitment to overcoming challenges is perhaps best exemplified by its work in Jammu & Kashmir. The company successfully implemented state-of-the-art Electronic Interlocking systems along the Baramulla to Reasi route, covering 258 kilometers, including 24 stations and tunnels through the rugged terrain of the Chenab Bridge. This project is a technical triumph and a testament to Hitachi Rail’s dedication to enhancing infrastructure in even the most challenging environments. The journey through Jammu & Kashmir, one of India’s most challenging terrains, reflects Hitachi Rail’s resilience and determination to contribute to nation-building through innovative and sustainable solutions.
Commitment to Sustainability: A Vision for the Future
As the world grapples with the effects of climate change, Hitachi Rail STS India has emerged as a leader in promoting sustainable transportation. The company has set ambitious targets to achieve carbon neutrality across its entire value chain by 2050. This goal aligns with India’s broader vision for a sustainable future and positions Hitachi Rail as a critical player in the country’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint. Hitachi Rail’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its projects across India. The Noida Metro, completed in just 28 months, is a prime example of energy-efficient technology.
With 21 stations and nearly 30 kilometers of the Noida Metro operates on green energy, setting a new standard for urban transportation in India. Moreover, Hitachi Rails partnership with the United NationsClimate Change Conference in Glasgow in 2021 further underscores its commitment to sustainability. “We want to reduce our carbon footprint,” says Krishnappa. “ At the global level, Hitachi has pledged to be carbon net zero by 2030. We’d also like to implement that across Hitachi Group companies in India and to help the Indian government achieve that as early as possible in line with its vision, so by 2050.”
Leadership and Vision: Driving Success
Manoj Kumar Krishnappa’s leadership has driven Hitachi Rail’s success in India. A former cricketer who played for Karnataka, Krishnappa’s competitive spirit and love for challenges have propelled him to the forefront of the industry. His journey with Hitachi Rail began in 2010.
Under his leadership, the company has achieved numerous milestones, including the Kolkata Metro’s new line and the Navi Mumbai Metro, India’s first turnkey metro project. Krishnappa’s vision extends beyond winning contracts; it’s about creating lasting impact and driving transformation. “It’s important to me to be part of something bigger than myself,” he says. “I seek ways to contribute to important projects that provide me with a sense of ownership both in my work and my overall work environment.”
The Future: Charting the Path Forward
As Hitachi Rail looks to the future, its focus remains on sustainability and innovation. The company is committed to decarbonizing India’s transportation system and is already making significant strides. With more than 300 full-time employees and an additional 300-plus contractors, Hitachi Rail is well-equipped to meet the challenges ahead.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Excellence
Hitachi Rail’s journey in India is far from over. With its unwavering commitment to sustainability, innovation, and excellence, the company is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of India’s transportation infrastructure. As the nation continues its march towards modernization and sustainability, Hitachi Rail will undoubtedly be at the forefront, driving change and setting new standards in the rail industry.
In the words of Krishnappa, “Railways are the lifeline of India, and this lifeline is set to grow stronger through the fusion of digital innovations, green technologies, and innovation. We at Hitachi Rail are at the helm of affairs to deliver secure, seamless rail journeys to millions of citizens.” Hitachi Rail’s commitment to nation-building is not just about completing projects; it’s about creating a legacy of excellence that will benefit future generations. With a clear vision and a relentless drive to succeed, Hitachi Rail is paving the way for India’s brighter, more sustainable future and beyond.
Images Credit: Hitachi Rail
Product Expertise Source: Hitachi Rail | This Product Expertise is a part of our Latest Magazine: Subscribe to our Magazine Today!
Author:
Mr. Manoj Kumar Krishnappa,
Director and Head,
Hitachi Rail STS India
