PM unveils DLW’s first diesel-to-electric converted locomotive
19 Feb 2019
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday flagged off a diesel-to-electric converted locomotive, the first in India and perhaps the world. The first-ever 10,000 HP locomotive, manufactured at the Diesel Locomotive Works (DLW), Varanasi, combines two old diesel engines to form a high horse power electric locomotive.
Diesel Locomotive Works converted two WDG3A diesel locos into a Twin Electric WAGC3 loco of 10,000 HP. A complete ‘Make in India’ initiative, the conversion is an Indian R&D innovation. The converted locos will result in less green house gas emissions and better efficient locomotives for the Indian Railways.
The 10,000 HP locomotive, which will be used in freight trains, has been converted from two units of old diesel locomotives of 2600HP each with indigenous technology. The feat was achieved in record time with the help of engineers from Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO), Chittaranjan Locomotive Works (DLW), and Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd. (BHEL).
The electric locomotive which the PM flagged off, has been undertaken by the Indian Railways as part of efforts to completely electrify the broad gauge network. The railways’ Mission 100 per cent electrification is part of the de-carbonisation agenda.
Immediately after landing at Lal Bahadur Shastri International airport, the prime minister drove off to DLW in his constituency, and flagged off the electric locomotive. He also inspected the engine from inside.
The work on the project began on 22 December 2017, and from concept to execution of the conversion of the diesel locomotive to electric was carried out in just 69 days, railway officials said.
The prime minister will also visit the Sant Ravidas Temple to participate in the birth anniversary celebrations of the mystic poet of the Bhakti Movement and attend several other programmes besides laying the foundation stone of projects worth several hundred crores.
He will also address a public meeting later in the day.
According to railway authorities, the conversion of diesel locomotive into electric engine not only created history but also proved to be cost effective, as it needed half the rehabilitation cost of old locos. Besides, it would be environment-friendly with enhanced traction power to double the average speed of goods trains.