Gurugram — India’s state-owned engineering consultancy is strengthening its position as a global railway solutions provider, accelerating its export momentum across Southern Africa through major deliveries and fresh international contracts.
Landmark Delivery in Mozambique
A key milestone has been achieved in , where RITES successfully completed the delivery of 10 Cape Gauge diesel-electric locomotives (3,300 HP) to national rail operator CFM (Caminhos de Ferro de Moçambique). The final shipment arrived at on April 16, 2026, marking the completion of the logistics phase of a contract signed in December 2023.
These locomotives were manufactured at and are specifically designed for Cape Gauge rail networks (1,067 mm), widely used across Southern Africa. Built to handle demanding terrain and operational conditions, the locomotives feature advanced AC-AC traction systems, microprocessor-based controls, remote monitoring, fault diagnostics, and modern braking technologies. They are engineered not only for performance and efficiency but also to enhance safety and crew comfort on long-haul routes.
Engineering Complexity and Strategic Significance
The project stands out for its technical complexity. India’s railway manufacturing ecosystem is primarily focused on broad gauge systems, requiring RITES to undertake significant design adaptation and specialized engineering for Cape Gauge compatibility. The execution involved close coordination with vendors, rigorous testing protocols, and seamless logistics management—from production to overseas delivery.
This successful deployment highlights India’s growing capability to deliver end-to-end, technology-driven railway solutions tailored to international standards.
Strengthening Long-Term Partnerships
The Mozambique project builds on an established partnership between RITES and CFM, which already includes prior deliveries of passenger coaches and locomotives. With nearly one-third of CFM’s locomotive fleet now sourced from India, the collaboration underscores deepening bilateral ties in infrastructure development and transport modernization.
Expanding Regional Presence in Africa
Beyond Mozambique, RITES is steadily widening its footprint across Southern Africa:
- In , the company has secured contracts from Talis Group and Ndalama Group for customized 3,100 HP Cape Gauge locomotives tailored to local operational needs.
- In , a new order from Berhard Group marks RITES’ entry into another strategically important rail network.
- Back in Mozambique, a repeat order from ICVL for five additional locomotives signals sustained trust and long-term demand.
India’s Growing Global Role
These developments go beyond commercial success. They reflect India’s emergence as a reliable global partner capable of delivering cost-effective, customized, and high-performance railway infrastructure solutions. RITES’ expanding international portfolio is helping strengthen rail-based logistics, boost trade connectivity, and support infrastructure modernization across the African continent.
With continued execution excellence and growing international partnerships, RITES is playing a pivotal role in advancing the “Make in India, for the World” vision—positioning India as a key exporter in the global railway industry.