Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) dispatched its sixth indigenously manufactured 3,300 horsepower AC–AC diesel-electric locomotive to Mozambique on 15 December 2025, marking continued progress in an export contract for the supply of 10 locomotives. The development reflects India’s expanding role in the manufacture and export of railway rolling stock for overseas markets.
Tthe Varanasi-based unit has secured an export order for 10 Cape Gauge (1,067 mm) diesel-electric locomotives for Mozambique. The contract is being executed through Rail India Technical and Economic Service (RITES), which is responsible for overseeing the manufacture and export of the locomotives.
The export programme began in June 2025 with the dispatch of the first two locomotives. The third unit was shipped in September, followed by the fourth in October. The fifth locomotive was dispatched on 12 December 2025, and the sixth on 15 December 2025. Four additional locomotives remain to be supplied under the contract.
The 3,300 horsepower AC–AC diesel-electric locomotives are designed for Cape Gauge operations and are capable of operating at speeds of up to 100 kilometres per hour. The locomotives incorporate features intended to support operational requirements and crew comfort, including a modern cab layout, refrigerator, hot plate, mobile device holder, and other driver-oriented fittings.
BLW is a public sector undertaking under Indian Railways and operates a manufacturing facility in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The unit undertakes the design and production of diesel and electric locomotives for domestic use and export markets. Over the past decade, BLW has supplied locomotives to several countries, including Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Mozambique.
The export of locomotives to Mozambique forms part of Indian Railways’ broader efforts to supply rolling stock and railway equipment to international markets with varying technical and gauge requirements. These efforts include the manufacture of locomotives and coaches compatible with different track gauges used outside India.
India has exported a range of railway equipment in recent years, including metro coaches, passenger coaches, bogies, and locomotives. Export destinations have included countries in Europe such as the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Germany, and Italy, as well as African markets including Mozambique, the Republic of Guinea, and South Africa. Other recipient countries have included Myanmar, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Australia, Canada, and Mexico.
Banaras Locomotive Works is a production unit of Indian Railways engaged in the manufacture of diesel and electric locomotives, with capabilities spanning design, assembly, testing, and commissioning for both domestic and export requirements.
