BLW Creates New History: Record Production of 572 Locomotives — Highest Ever Annual Output

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20% Historic Increase Compared to 477 Locomotives Last Year

Varanasi (PIB): Banaras Locomotive Works (#BLW) has added a new golden chapter to the industrial history of Indian Railways by achieving a record-breaking production of 572 locomotives in the financial year 2025–26 under the capable leadership of General Manager Ashutosh Pant. This milestone stands as strong evidence of BLW’s technical excellence, efficient management, and the relentless efforts of its officers and employees.

In comparison, 477 locomotives were produced in the previous financial year (2024–25), marking an impressive ~20% increase in production this year. This achievement is a matter of pride not only for BLW but for the entire Indian Railways family.

Breakdown of 572 Locomotives Produced:

558 modern electric locomotives for Indian Railways, including:

  • WAG-9 – 401
  • WAP-7 – 143
  • Amrit Bharat Locomotives – 14
  • 10 diesel locomotives for export to Mozambique
  • 04 diesel locomotives for non railways customers

Notably, against a target of 553 electric locomotives for FY 2025–26, BLW successfully produced 558 units, exceeding the target by approximately 1%.and 18% more than previous year.

A Glorious Journey: 11,259 Locomotives Built So Far

Since its inception, BLW has manufactured a total of 11,259 locomotives, including 2,925 electric locomotives. This reflects BLW’s significant contribution to the self-reliance and technological advancement of Indian Railways.

Focus on Modern Technology and Crew Comfort

BLW prioritizes crew safety and comfort in its locomotives. Advanced features include: “Waterless urinals, CLI seats, Signal exchange lights, DPWCS, ‘Kavach’ safety system—Due to these innovations, BLW has been awarded First Prize for Best Locomotive Cab in the Production Unit category.”

BLW has been awarded the ISO 22163 Silver Grade Certification under IRIS by the European body UNIFE, for the second consecutive time. This recognition highlights BLW’s commitment to quality, reliability, and global standards.

Commitment to Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection

BLW continues to work actively toward sustainability:

Rainwater harvesting through ponds and soak pits conserves thousands of liters of water annually. Installed capacity of grid-connected solar power plant:

  • 3874 kWp
  • Solar energy generated in FY 2025–26: 41.76 lakhs units, accounting for ~19.87% of total annual energy consumption
  • Savings from solar energy: approximately ₹1.58 crore

Leadership in Promotion of Hindi

For outstanding promotion of the official language Hindi, BLW has been awarded the “Rail Minister Rajbhasha Shield” by the Railway Board’s Rajbhasha Directorate, reflecting its continued commitment to Hindi.

Moving Towards New Targets

The Ministry of Railways has set an ambitious target of 642 electric locomotives for BLW for the financial year 2026–27.

On this historic achievement, General Manager Shri Ashutosh Pant congratulated all officers, employees, women staff, and their families. He stated that this success is the result of the team’s hard work, technical expertise, and strong commitment to achieving targets set by the Railway Board. He expressed confidence that BLW will set new benchmarks in the coming financial year as well.