Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made history. He launched a new electric locomotive. It’s called the D9-9000 HP. The event happened in Dahod, Gujarat. It took place on May 26, 2025. This is a big step for Indian Railways.
The locomotive is powerful. D9-9000 HP has 9,000 horsepower. It can haul heavy freight. Each one can carry 5,800 tons. It moves at speeds up to 120 km/h. This makes it one of the strongest single-unit engines. Only the 12,000 HP WAG-12B beats it.
The launch happened at a new factory. It’s in Dahod. The factory was built in less than two years. Modi laid its foundation in 2022. Now, it’s a modern hub. It will make 1,200 of these locomotives. The project cost Rs 21,405 crore.
Indian new D9-9000 HP
The D9-9000 HP is eco-friendly. It uses green energy. This cuts carbon emissions. Over its life, D9-9000 HP could save 800 million tons of CO2. It has advanced tech. This includes the Kavach safety system. It also has digital tracking. Siemens, a German firm, helped design it.
Most parts are made in India. About 90% come from local factories. This fits the “Make in India” plan. It boosts jobs too. Around 10,000 people may work here. Many are young locals. This helps the economy in Dahod.
The factory has cool features. It uses virtual reality for safety training. There’s a simulator for practice. Loco-shunters move carriages easily. These tools make work better. They also improve safety.
Modi spoke at the event. He called it a proud moment. He said it shows India’s growth. The railway minister was there too. Ashwini Vaishnaw praised the team. Siemens CEO Michael Peter joined as well. He said it’s a milestone.
The locomotive will help freight. It can carry more goods. This means fewer trips. It reduces congestion on tracks. Faster deliveries will benefit industries. The goal is to raise rail freight share to 45%. It’s now at 27%.
People are excited. Posts on X show joy. Many call it a big win. Some highlight the green tech. Others note the jobs. A few ask about export plans. The buzz is strong.
This is not the end. The factory will keep growing. It aims to export locomotives. Countries may buy India’s engines. This could boost trade. The project started with a €3 billion deal in 2023. More deals may follow.
Dahod has a rail history. It was a hub long ago. Work moved away over time. Now, it’s back. The town is happy. New jobs bring hope. The area feels alive again.
Challenges remain. Building 1,200 locomotives takes time. Maintenance will be key. The tech must work well. India wants to lead in rail. This launch is a start.
The world is watching. India’s rail power grows. The D9 could change freight. It shows what the country can do. Modi’s vision is taking shape. The future looks bright.
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