New Delhi: In a significant push to India’s “Make in India – Make for the World” vision, Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW), a leading production unit of Indian Railways based in Varanasi, is set to export ten high-powered Cape Gauge diesel-electric locomotives to Mozambique.

According to Dilip Kumar, Executive Director (Information and Publicity), Railway Board, two of the ten 3300 HP locomotives have already been delivered to Mozambique Railways (CFM), with the remaining eight scheduled for dispatch by the end of this year. “We are not only meeting domestic demand but are also actively catering to international markets,” Kumar told reporters in New Delhi on Thursday, highlighting the significance of the export order.

Manufactured at BLW’s Varanasi facility, the locomotives are designed for 1067 mm Cape Gauge tracks commonly used across Africa and parts of Asia. Each locomotive can reach speeds up to 100 kmph and is equipped with modern, driver-centric amenities including air-conditioned cabs, refrigerators, mobile charging points, and toilets. Officials emphasized that these features align with international standards for crew comfort and safety.

The contract was awarded through RITES Ltd., a government-owned engineering consultancy and export PSU. Mozambique’s latest procurement builds on its earlier collaboration with India—between 2021 and 2023, BLW had successfully supplied six 3000 HP locomotives, which are already operational on Mozambique’s rail network.

Railway officials described the deal as a testament to India’s growing engineering capabilities and reputation as a trusted supplier in global rail manufacturing. “This achievement further strengthens India’s global engineering footprint, self-reliance, and export potential,” Kumar said.

Since its inception in 1956, BLW has manufactured over 10,000 locomotives, serving not only Indian Railways but also steel plants, ports, mines, and customers overseas. The unit’s first international delivery was made to Tanzania in 1976. Over the decades, BLW has expanded its export footprint to countries including Vietnam, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Mali, Senegal, Angola, Sudan, and Mozambique.

BLW General Manager Naresh Pal Singh attributed the success of the latest export order to the dedication and professionalism of the Varanasi facility’s workforce. “Their commitment has helped us deliver world-class products that showcase India’s engineering excellence,” Singh said.

Officials noted that the project underscores the government’s focus on strengthening domestic manufacturing capabilities while tapping global markets. With India emerging as an important player in international rail infrastructure, such deals are expected to open more avenues for exports and collaborations with railway networks worldwide.