Source: https://m.dailyhunt.in/news/india/english/mathrubhumienglish-epaper-mtbumien/railways+nears+96+pc+electrification+to+export+diesel+engines+to+africa+as+part+of+intl+expansion-newsid-n639160676
Publisher: Dailyhunt
Indian Railways has reached a massive milestone with 96 percent of electrification now complete. As the country moves closer to full electrification, it is turning its attention to international markets, with plans to export diesel engines to African countries. This initiative aims to cater to the growing demand for reliable rail transport in the African continent. Diesel engine export to Africa set to begin. Indian Railways is set to export 20 diesel engines to Africa for use in steel and mining industries, with an initial export order worth Rs 50 crore. These engines, which are expected to have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years, will be delivered with slight modifications to suit the specific requirements in African countries. The order has been secured by Rail India Technical and Economic Services (RITES). The diesel engines will be used primarily in South African countries, where the rail network uses the Cape gauge track, which is 1.06 metres wide, unlike India’s broad gauge of 1.6 metres. To make the engines compatible with the narrower tracks, the axles of the engines will need to be altered, reducing the distance between the wheels to the required 1.06-meter standard.
Modifications to engines for African rail network
The task of redesigning the diesel engines for the African market will be carried out by the Research Design and Standards Organization (RDSO), which is responsible for the technical modifications required. A senior official at Perambur Loco Works confirmed that the necessary changes will be made at the Chittaranjan Locomotive Workshop in Kolkata, which is well-equipped to handle the modifications.
