India’s Rail Industry Goes Global: Ashwini Vaishnaw Highlights Export Success of Coaches, Bogies, Propulsion Systems from Alstom’s Savli Facility
Vadodara, July 27: Indian Railways is rapidly transforming into a global hub for rail technology and exports, Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw said during a review visit to Alstom’s Savli facility in Vadodara, Gujarat. Lauding the facility’s contributions to the ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ vision, the minister underscored the rising global demand for Indian-designed and manufactured railway systems.
Customized Manufacturing and Maintenance Excellence
During his tour of Alstom’s state-of-the-art rolling stock manufacturing unit, Vaishnaw assessed maintenance practices and manufacturing innovations, commending the company’s customised design solutions for international clients. He proposed a joint training programme between Alstom, Indian Railways, and Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya, encouraging wider adoption of international best practices.
He also recommended that General Managers from Indian Railways’ Production Units visit the Savli plant for training and exposure, especially to innovations in AI-enabled preventive maintenance and sensor-based diagnostics.
Export Milestones Reinforce Global Position
According to the Ministry of Railways, the Savli facility has achieved major export milestones:
- Over 3,800 bogies exported to Germany, Egypt, Sweden, Australia, and Brazil
- More than 4,000 flatpacks (rail modules) shipped to Vienna, Austria
- 450 rail cars produced at Savli for Australia’s Queensland Metro
The neighbouring Maneja unit has exported over 5,000 propulsion systems to projects in France, Mexico, Romania, Spain, Germany, and Italy.
Since 2016, India has exported over 1,000 rail cars to international markets, establishing itself as a trusted global supplier. The export portfolio includes:
- Metro coaches to Australia and Canada
- Bogies to the UK, Saudi Arabia, France, and Australia
- Passenger coaches to Mozambique, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka
- Locomotives to Mozambique, Senegal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Bangladesh, and the Republic of Guinea
Indian Engineers Driving Global Rail Innovation
The Ministry revealed that over 3,400 Indian engineers are currently contributing to operations across 21 Alstom sites worldwide, collaborating on critical global rail projects.
India also leads 27 international signalling projects and supports 40 more globally, through advanced work in IoT, AI, blockchain, and cybersecurity, much of which is coordinated from the Digital Experience Centre in Bengaluru.
Impact on Local Economy and Workforce
Alstom’s operations have spurred the growth of a robust local supply chain. Companies such as Integra, Anovi, Hind Rectifier, Hitachi Energy, and ABB are playing vital roles in fabrication, interiors, and electrical systems, generating employment and technological upskilling across the region.
Speaking to the media, Ashwini Vaishnaw said,
“The ‘Make in India and Make for the World’ initiative is clearly visible in the Indian Railways manufacturing sector. Export of coaches, locomotives, and propulsion systems is not only a technological milestone but also a catalyst for job creation and skill development.”
He added that Indian engineers are now acquiring expertise in global quality and safety standards, which marks a significant achievement under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat mission.
Looking Ahead
With growing export orders and increased collaboration with international players, the Indian Railways’ manufacturing sector is set to play a central role in positioning India as a global railway manufacturing and innovation hub.
