Varanasi Becoming Railway Locomotive Export Hub | 17 Dec 2025

Why in News? 

Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW), Varanasi dispatched indigenously manufactured locomotives to Mozambique, strengthening India’s position as a global railway export hub. 

Key Points 

• Export Milestone: BLW dispatched the 6th 3300 HP AC-AC diesel-electric locomotive to Mozambique on 15 December 2025. 
• Production & Dispatch Timeline: 2 locomotives dispatched in June 2025, 3rd in September, 4th in October, 5th on 12 December, and 6th on 15 December 2025. 
• Technical Features: Locomotives are 3300 HP, Cape Gauge (1067 mm), with a maximum speed of 100 km/h and equipped with modern, driver-friendly cab amenities. 
• Strategic Importance: Enhances India’s railway export capability and supports Make in India and Make for the World initiatives. 
• Global Export Footprint: Since 2014, BLW has exported locomotives to Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Mozambique; Indian Railways exports now span Europe, Africa, Australia, Canada, and Mexico. 
• National Significance: Demonstrates self-reliance in railway manufacturing and growing global trust in Indian engineering.