From India to Guinea: Indian railways to export 150 Bihar-made locomotives to Africa
India has secured a landmark ₹3,000 crore export deal to supply 150 high-powered diesel locomotives to Guinea in West Africa, marking one of the country's biggest railway export achievements under the 'Make in India' initiative. The locomotives will support the Simandou iron ore project, one of the world's largest mining developments.
The locomotives will be manufactured at the Marhowra Diesel Locomotive Factory in Bihar through a collaboration between Indian Railways and Wabtec. The factory has already produced over 700 advanced freight locomotives, reinforcing India's growing capabilities in global railway manufacturing.
Each 4,500 HP Evolution Series ES43ACmi locomotive features AC propulsion, regenerative braking, microprocessor-based controls, fire detection systems, and modern crew amenities. The engines have been specially customised to suit Guinea's terrain, climate, and standard-gauge railway network.
Deliveries will take place over three years, with 37 locomotives scheduled in the first phase, 82 in the second year, and the remaining 31 in the final phase. The export order was won through global competitive bidding, highlighting India's competitiveness in high-end railway engineering.
Beyond strengthening India-Africa economic ties, the project is expected to generate employment, boost exports, and position Bihar as a key global manufacturing hub for advanced locomotives. The deal represents another major milestone in India's ambition to become a leading exporter of world-class railway technology.