India locomotives inaugurated In Mozambique
Four Cape Gauge Diesel locomotives, manufactured by Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) for export to Mozambique were formally inaugurated by H.E. the President of Mozambique, in presence of H.E. the President of Zimbabwe at Beira on 11th of February 2022.
Financed and manufactured in India, BLW hopes that this delivery will enable India to enter the market for Cape Gauge Locomotives, used extensively in the region.
The 3000 HP Locomotives will be used to haul 3561 tonnes of coal from Coal Mines to the Port of Beira, hauling 43 wagons. Built with AC-AC traction system, axle load of 20 ton and capable for 100 km/h speed. The AC-AC traction system, traction alternator, traction motor, turbo, water closet were specially designed for Mozambique. The locomotives are equipped with Computer Controlled Brake system (CCB 2.0). M/s Bureau Veritas/Noida an International inspecting agency appointed by Mozambique Railway carried out stage inspection of Mozambique Locomotives at BLW.
The Positive Impact on Rail Transport Efforts
In addition, 300wagons were acquired from the South African market, valued at USD 22 million, financed by Portos e Caminhos de Ferro de Moçambique.
Accordingly, the Beira rail system will go from the current 16 locomotives to 22 and from 375 wagons to 507. Enabling current cargo volumes to go from 35 thousand net tons, to 86 thousand net tons per month, allowing for an improvement in meeting the demand, especially the freight transport needs of Zimbabwe, Malawi and Zambia.
It should be noted that in addition to the acquisition of this equipment, the Beira railway system is receiving approximately USD 200 million for the rehabilitation of the Machipanda railway line that connects the Port of Beira to Zimbabwe. This will increase rail freight handled, as well as the migration of road freight to the rail, increasing efficiency, as well as reducing truck congestion on the N6, among other advantages.
