Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) has supplied six 3,000 horsepower AC-AC diesel-electric locomotives to Mozambique Railways (CFM), which are currently in operation in the country. Following this delivery, CFM has awarded an additional contract for ten locomotives with a higher power output of 3,300 horsepower.
Details of the new contract
The new order is processed through Messers Rights and covers the manufacture and supply of ten 3,300 HP AC-AC diesel-electric locomotives designed for Cape Gauge (1,067 mm) railways. Two of these units were shipped to Mozambique in June 2025. The remaining eight are scheduled to be dispatched by December 2025.
The locomotives can reach speeds up to 100 km/h and are built for freight and passenger operations on Cape Gauge tracks.
Technical specifications and driver features
The locomotives produced by Banaras Locomotive Works for this contract are equipped with several features intended to improve the driver's working environment. The cabs are fitted with refrigerators, hot plates, mobile holders, toilets, and a cab design focusing on driver comfort. The technical platform is based on a 12-cylinder diesel engine delivering 3,300 HP with AC-AC transmission.
The factory’s approach in this project aligns with international technical requirements for export locomotives.
Background of Banaras locomotive works’ export activity
Since its establishment on April 23, 1956, Banaras Locomotive Works has produced over 10,000 locomotives for Indian Railways, steel plants, mines, ports, and international customers. The first export shipment was delivered to Tanzania in January 1976. Subsequent deliveries have included locomotives to Vietnam, Mali, Senegal, Angola, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Mozambique, and Sudan.
The current Mozambique project adds to Banaras Locomotive Works’ portfolio of international supplies, continuing its long-standing participation in locomotive exports from India.
