India’s Global Rail Ambition: Marhowrah Loco Factory Lands Big Export Deal

India has achieved a major milestone in its railway manufacturing sector: the Marhowrah Diesel Locomotive Factory (DLF) in Bihar has secured its first large-scale export order valued at approximately ₹2,000 crore. The order, placed by the Republic of Guinea, calls for the production of 140 Evolution Series ES43ACmi diesel locomotives. Built in partnership with Wabtec (a joint venture between Indian Railways and U.S.-based Wabtec Corporation), these powerful 4,500 hp units are known for their high fuel-efficiency and capacity to operate reliably in hot climates — features that make them especially suitable for Guinea’s infrastructure and rail‑haulage needs.

The Marhowrah plant, which began operations in 2018, has previously focused on serving Indian Railways. But this export deal marks a shift: it underscores the factory’s transformation into a global locomotive‑export hub. Production for the Guinea order is slated to start in 2025, with deliveries projected to begin in June 2025 and continue through March 2028. Beyond just the order value, the contract supports key “Make in India” and “Make for the World” initiatives, reflecting a growing ambition to scale up India’s engineering and industrial presence on the global stage.

Apart from the technical and economic impact, this deal also carries important diplomatic and geopolitical implications. The locomotives will support Guinea’s Simandou iron-ore project, a major infrastructure undertaking in West Africa, and the partnership strengthens India–Guinea bilateral ties. The export also comes with social and employment benefits: the Marhowrah plant currently provides 285 direct jobs, plus more than 1,200 indirect jobs, and the joint venture reportedly supports over 2,100 employees across India.