Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Dahod Locomotive Manufacturing Plant in Gujarat, which will produce 9000 HP electric locomotives for domestic use and exports. He flagged off the first locomotive from the plant and launched the Veraval-Ahmedabad Vande Bharat Express, marking a significant step in India’s Make in India and railway modernization initiatives.
Introduction:
In a key milestone that reinforces India’s goal of becoming a global hub for railway manufacturing, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the world-class Dahod Locomotive Manufacturing Plant in Gujarat. This modern facility worth nearly Rs. 21,405 crore, has the capacity to produce 12000 of 9000 HP freight locomotives, engineered not just to power domestic freight movement but also for international exports, highlighting India’s growing footprint in the global rail industry.
The Prime Minister flagged off the first D9 – 9000 HP electric locomotive produced at the plant— a proud milestone for the project whose foundation stone he had laid three years ago. The locomotive is equipped with regenerative braking technology and promises enhanced energy efficiency, contributing to India’s sustainable transportation aim. With the production of these high-powered engines, the Indian Railways aim to accelerate its freight capacity significantly, aligning with its broader goals of efficiency, sustainability, and self-reliance.
A Symbol of Make in India and Export Excellence:
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the importance of self-reliant manufacturing. He emphasised that India is not just an importer of technology but has emerged as a global exporter of railway and metro components, sending metro coaches to Australia, train coaches to England, France, and Saudi Arabia, and railway parts to countries including Mexico, Germany, Spain, and Italy.
He added that Indian-made passenger coaches are being used in Mozambique and Sri Lanka, while ‘Made in India’ locomotives are enhancing rail networks in multiple countries. This marks a vital expansion of India’s Make in India initiative, integrating national pride with global competitiveness.
New Vande Bharat Express and Regional Connectivity Boost:
During the event, the Prime Minister also flagged off two new trains—the Vande Bharat Express between Veraval and Ahmedabad and an Express train between Valsad and Dahod. The Vande Bharat, India’s premium semi-high-speed train, now operates on nearly 70 routes, a testament to the country’s swift strides in rail infrastructure development.
The newly introduced trains are posed to improve regional connectivity, minimise travel time, and offer passengers a modern, comfortable travel experience. These services, he said, reflect the transformation in the Indian Railways, which is now offering safer, faster, and more efficient travel options than ever before.
Massive Infrastructure Push:
In addition to the factory inauguration and train flag-offs, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone and inaugurated multiple development projects in Dahod. These consist of several railway infrastructure upgrades as well as initiatives led by the Government of Gujarat. These projects aim to boost the socio-economic development of the region and create new employment opportunities, particularly in the manufacturing and services sectors.
Shri Modi also highlighted the electrification of Gujarat’s entire railway network, announcing with pride that the state has achieved 100% railway electrification, a major step towards decarbonizing India’s transportation systems and achieving its Net Zero goal.
Siemens Powers India’s Advanced Locomotive at Dahod Facility:
As one of the most powerful electric locomotives globally, the D9 – 9000 HP electric locomotive boasts nearly 90% indigenous technology, showcasing India’s engineering prowess. Siemens has played a vital role in this achievement, with key technologies and critical components being produced at its manufacturing units in Nashik, Aurangabad, and Mumbai. The final assembly and commissioning are being carried out in collaboration with Indian Railways at the top-class Dahod facility, representing a strong example of Make-in-India success.
Driving Green Freight Movement with Smart Technology:
The powerful D9 locomotive supports India’s plan to accelerate freight rail share to 45%, helping cut 800 million tons of CO₂ emissions. With 5800-ton haulage capacity and 120 km/h speed, it’s ideal for efficient freight movement. Integrated with Siemens’ Railigent X platform, it ensures predictive maintenance and high availability, allowing smarter, greener mobility across India’s railway network.
Transforming Indian Railways Over a Decade:
Reflecting on the Indian Railways’ transformation over the past 10-11 years, Shri Modi cited the expansion of metro networks, the development of semi-high-speed train corridors, and the upgradation of rolling stock. He remarked that railway coaches and locomotives are now being produced domestically at scale, minimising dependence on imports and propelling India into the ranks of leading global railway producers.
He further stressed the role of advanced technology and innovation in driving the growth of the sector. The introduction of regenerative braking, energy-efficient systems, and AI-based monitoring are among the tools being deployed to improve performance and safety.
Conclusion:
The inauguration of the Dahod Locomotive Factory marks a defining moment for India’s railway goals. With a focus on high-powered locomotive production, enhanced connectivity, and global exports, India is rapidly emerging as a railway manufacturing leader. This development strengthens the pillars of Make in India, green mobility, and self-reliant infrastructure growth.
Source: PIB – Press Release | Images Credit: Siemens
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