CLW Sets New Record with 800 Electric Locomotives in FY 2025–26

In a landmark achievement for India’s railway manufacturing sector, Chittaranjan Locomotive Works (CLW) has created history by producing a record 800 electric locomotives during the financial year 2025–26. This marks the highest-ever annual production by the organisation, setting a new benchmark in locomotive manufacturing.

The record-breaking output includes 600 locomotives manufactured at the Chittaranjan unit and 200 locomotives produced at the Dankuni Loco Works unit, reflecting a significant boost in production capacity across both facilities.

The milestone was celebrated with great enthusiasm on the final day of the financial year. A ceremonial flag-off of a set of five newly built electric locomotives, including the 800th unit, was conducted at CLW’s Chittaranjan facility. The event was led by General Manager Mohit Chandra in the presence of senior officials and employees, marking a proud moment for the organisation.

The locomotives flagged off included advanced and specialised variants designed to meet evolving railway needs. These comprised a pair of WAP-5 push-pull aerodynamic locomotives intended for Amrit Bharat trains, a pair of WAG-9 Twin locomotives, and one WAG-9 High Capacity (HC) locomotive. These modern locomotives are expected to significantly enhance both passenger and freight operations on Indian Railways.

Officials highlighted that the achievement represents a substantial increase from the previous financial year 2024–25, when CLW produced a total of 700 locomotives, including 544 units from the Chittaranjan facility and 156 units from Dankuni. The jump to 800 locomotives underscores the organisation’s growing efficiency, improved manufacturing processes, and enhanced workforce productivity.

In a parallel milestone, the Dankuni Loco Works unit also achieved its highest-ever annual production by manufacturing 200 locomotives in a single financial year since its inception. Earlier in the day, the 200th locomotive from the Dankuni unit was also ceremonially flagged off by the General Manager, marking a historic moment for the facility.

With this accomplishment, CLW has further cemented its position as one of the largest locomotive manufacturing units in the world operating under a single establishment. The achievement is being seen as a testament to India’s expanding capabilities in railway infrastructure and engineering.

The record production gains added significance in the context of Indian Railways’ ongoing push towards complete electrification. The addition of 800 electric locomotives is expected to play a crucial role in improving rail operations, ensuring smoother train movement, and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

Experts note that increased deployment of electric locomotives will contribute to substantial savings in fuel costs while also helping reduce carbon emissions. This aligns with the broader national goals of sustainable development and environmentally friendly transportation systems.

Addressing the gathering during the flag-off ceremony, General Manager Mohit Chandra congratulated the entire workforce of CLW for their dedication and relentless efforts. He praised “Team CLW” for overcoming operational challenges and achieving this remarkable milestone within the financial year.

He emphasised that the success reflects not only hard work but also the organisation’s commitment to innovation, efficiency, and excellence in manufacturing. According to him, the achievement sets new standards for productivity in the locomotive manufacturing sector and strengthens CLW’s leadership position.

The record-breaking performance of CLW is expected to have a positive impact on Indian Railways’ operational capabilities, enabling faster, more reliable, and environmentally sustainable rail services across the country.