Alstom, a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, has successfully delivered its 500th electric locomotive to Indian Railways, marking a significant milestone in the modernization of India's freight transportation network. The milestone locomotive, a Prima T8 WAG12B, was flagged off from Alstom’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Madhepura, Bihar, in the presence of senior Indian Railways officials, including Chief Administrative Officer Mr. Manish Kumar, along with Alstom executives.

This delivery is part of a €3.5 billion contract under which Alstom is supplying 800 high-powered double-section Prima T8 locomotives, each boasting 12,000 HP (9 MW) for freight operations. These advanced locomotives, designated as WAG-12B by Indian Railways, can haul 6,000-tonne rakes at speeds of up to 120 km/h. To ensure efficiency and reduce maintenance costs, Alstom has also established two ultra-modern maintenance depots in Saharanpur and Nagpur, integrating predictive technology for optimized performance.

Strengthening ‘Make in India’ Initiative

Manufactured at one of India’s largest greenfield facilities in Madhepura, this project represents the largest Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the Indian railway sector. The facility has an annual production capacity of 120 locomotives, with localization levels reaching nearly 90%. More than 85% of components are sourced locally, reinforcing India's self-reliance in high-horsepower locomotive production.

Technological Advancements and Economic Impact

 These WAG-12B locomotives are powered by advanced Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT) propulsion technology, which enhances energy efficiency through regenerative braking, reducing operational costs and congestion on railway networks. The locomotives have already covered over 120 million kilometers, transporting key commodities such as coal, cement, food grains, and petrochemicals across India.

Olivier Loison, Managing Director of Alstom India, emphasized the significance of this achievement, stating, "Our WAG-12B electric locomotives, fully manufactured in India, are enhancing freight movement with greater efficiency and reliability. This milestone underscores our dedication to India’s rail modernization and economic growth."

Source/RSB