BLW Sets New Production Record: Manufactures 475 Locomotives in FY 2023-24

Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) has once again etched its name in the annals of railway history by surpassing all previous records in locomotive manufacturing. In the financial year 2023-24, BLW achieved an extraordinary feat by producing 475 locomotives, exceeding the target set by the Railway Board which stood at 460 locomotives. This remarkable accomplishment marks the highest-ever production of locomotives in any single financial year.

The breakdown of this achievement includes the manufacture of 470 electric locomotives for Indian Railways and 5 diesel locomotives for Indian domestic customers. BLW’s cumulative production now stands at an impressive 10,210 locomotives since its inception, encompassing various types such as diesel (alco and high power) as well as electric locomotives.

This exceptional performance comes on the heels of several accolades earned by BLW, including being recognized as the Best Production Unit on five occasions by the Railway Board. In December 2023, BLW reached a significant milestone when the 10,000th locomotive produced by the unit was dedicated to the nation by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

Furthermore, in January 2024, BLW achieved a new production milestone by manufacturing 55 electric locomotives in a single month, setting a new record in its illustrious history.

BLW’s commitment to excellence extends beyond locomotive production to environmental sustainability. The unit has made substantial contributions towards energy conservation by implementing initiatives such as rainwater harvesting and utilization of solar energy, resulting in a commendable 22.33% reduction in grid electricity consumption.

Recognizing BLW’s exemplary efforts towards the promotion and usage of the official language Hindi, the unit was honored with the “Railway Minister Official Language Shield” on March 22, 2024.

Looking ahead to the new financial year 2024-25, the Railway Ministry has set an ambitious target of manufacturing 500 electric locomotives for BLW. General Manager Basudev Panda expressed his confidence in BLW’s ability to meet this target, attributing the success to the dedication and hard work of the unit’s officers, employees, and women workers.

In recognition of their tireless efforts, General Manager Basudev Panda announced cash awards totaling Rs 1 lakh to various departments within BLW. The award ceremony, held at the Loco Assembly Shop, was attended by senior officials and employees, further underscoring the collective spirit and commitment towards excellence at BLW.