Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw on Monday lauded the inauguration of a modern locomotive manufacturing plant in Dahod, Gujarat, calling it a transformative step that will redefine the city’s identity on the global stage.
According to Vaishnaw, the facility will manufacture 9,000-horsepower electric locomotives, named “D Nine,” symbolising Dahod’s resurgence as a major railway production hub. The locomotives are expected to serve not only the Indian Railways network but also be exported globally.
“When the world was run by steam engines, Dahod played a key role in railway production. But with the gradual replacement of these engines, Dahod’s economy was significantly impacted. In 2022, our Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, decided that modern electric locomotives would be built in Dahod, and work began in 2023. Today, we have a state-of-the-art factory ready,” the Railway Minister said.
“The 9,000-horsepower locomotives from Dahod will not only operate within India but will also be exported across the globe. This is not just an engine—it’s a running computer centre. It is high in quality, yet low in cost. Named ‘D Nine,’ meaning Dahod 9000, this factory will bring international recognition to Dahod. Prime Minister Modi has truly blessed this sacred land,” he added.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the locomotive manufacturing plant of Indian Railways in Dahod, marking a major milestone in boosting the country’s railway infrastructure and freight capabilities.
He also flagged off the first electric locomotive produced at the plant.
According to an official release from the Prime Minister’s Office, the inauguration is part of PM Modi’s ongoing commitment to enhancing connectivity and developing world-class transport infrastructure. The Dahod facility will produce 9,000-horsepower electric locomotives for both domestic use and international export.
The locomotives are expected to significantly increase Indian Railways’ freight loading capacity. They will feature regenerative braking systems and be designed to reduce energy consumption, thereby contributing to environmental sustainability, the statement said. (ANI)