The Ministry of Railways has awarded Besco Limited a significant contract to manufacture and supply two LOHA rakes designed for transporting 26-meter-long rails. Each rake will consist of 21 units comprising two BRNAM1 (Design-F) wagons. The contract worth Rs. 31.28 crore is to be executed within 9 months and showcases Indian Railway’s rolling stock modernisation efforts.
Introduction:
In a major development towards rail rolling stock development in Indian Railways, the Ministry of Railway has awarded a prestigious order to Besco Limited for the manufacturing supply of two LOHA rakes, it should be designed in a way that it can transport 26-meter-long rails.
Each LOHA (Long Haul) rake includes 21 units, with each unit comprising two BRNAM1 (Design-F) wagons. These specifically designed wagons will improve rapid rail laying operations and accelerate smooth movement on long rails and is vital for track modernization across the country.
Contract Overview:
- Number of Rakes: 2
- Rate per LOHA Rake: Rs. 15,64,07,888.32
- Total Contract Value: Rs. 31,28,15,776.64
- Execution Period: 9 Months
- Purpose: For transportation of 26-meter-long rails on BRNAM1 wagons
Design & Engineering Specifications:
The LOHA rakes are specifically designed to transport long rails in a safe and efficient way.
BRNAM1 wagons are chosen for this work due to its structural integrity, capacity, and adaptability, it best suitable for these types of setup.
Brake and Pipe System Requirements:
The rakes will incorporate two types of brake systems-
- Conventional Brake System
- Bogie Mounted Brake System
To ensure optimal performance and safety, the following stainless-steel materials will be used in the brake piping systems-
| Pipe Type | Material Specification |
| Brake Pipe (BP) | ASTM-A312 Schedule 40 S Gr. TP 304 (Seamless) |
| Feed Pipe (FP | ASTM-A312 Schedule 40 S Gr. TP 304 (Seamless) |
| Branch Pipe | ASTM-A312 Schedule 40 S Gr. TP 304 (Seamless) |
This adherence to high-grade stainless steel shows durability, corrosion resistance, and low maintenance — necessary for high-performance rail operations.
Strategic Significance:
The procurement of LOHA rakes is part of a broader vision to enhance rail infrastructure development, especially in laying new tracks and maintaining long rail corridors properly. As Indian Railways move towards network expansion under initiatives like Gati Shakti and Vision 2047, logistics assets like LOHA rakes will play a vital role in executing track-laying projects at larger scale.
Conclusion:
Besco Limited receiving this contract marks a step towards Indian Railways’ infrastructure and logistics modernization strategy. With modern design, quality materials, and a defined execution timeline, these LOHA rakes will enhance operational efficiency in rail transportation and support ongoing and future track expansion projects across India.
Source: MOR – Press Release | Image Credit (representational): Besco Ltd.
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