Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated India's most powerful electric locomotive, the 9,000-horsepower D-90, at the Dahod facility in Gujarat. This unveiling signifies a major advancement in the nation's commitment to modernizing its railway infrastructure and promoting sustainable transportation. The D-90 locomotive is the result of a collaboration between Indian Railways and Siemens Mobility. Under a €3 billion contract, Siemens is set to deliver 1,200 such locomotives over the next 11 years, marking the largest locomotive order in the company's history. These locomotives are designed to haul freight loads of up to 4,500 tonnes at speeds reaching 120 km/h, significantly enhancing the efficiency of freight transport across the country.

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Boosting Local Manufacturing and Employment

The Dahod facility, once a steam locomotive unit, has been transformed into a state-of-the-art manufacturing hub. With a localization rate of 89 per cent, the project is expected to generate approximately 10,000 jobs, contributing to the local economy and aligning with the 'Make in India' initiative.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

The introduction of these electric locomotives is a significant step towards India's goal of achieving a 100 per cent electrified rail network. Over their lifecycle, these locomotives are projected to replace between 500,000 to 800,000 trucks, potentially saving more than 800 million tonnes of CO2 emissions. This move underscores India's commitment to building the world's largest green rail network.

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With the successful launch of the D-90 locomotive, Indian Railways is poised to revolutionize freight transport in the country. The integration of advanced technologies and sustainable practices sets a precedent for future developments in the railway sector, positioning India as a leader in green transportation solutions.