TBM Staff - Mumbai
A joint venture (JV) between a Russian rolling stock major and an Indian railway PSU has commissioned the Marathwada Rail Coach Factory in Latur. This facility will produce 1,920 new-age sleeper coaches for Vande Bharat trains, or 120 trainsets, with the first expected in two years. The JV, Kinet Railway Solutions, has secured a contract to manufacture and maintain these coaches for 35 years.
The project focuses on upgrading existing government manufacturing facilities and depots to align with global production and maintenance standards. Kinet’s Managing Director, Sathyamurthy K, emphasised the socio-economic impact of the plant, noting that it will create over 10,000 jobs. Alexandra Meluzova, CEO, highlighted the employment boost for the region.
Spread over 351 acres, the facility includes 11 advanced assembly stations and specialised workshops such as car body, testing, and paint shops. It features eco-friendly initiatives like a solar power plant, wastewater treatment, and a goal to plant over 1,000 trees by next year.
Additionally, railway sources mentioned that minor changes in train configurations are underway, with plans to switch from a 16-coach to a 24-coach Sleeper Vande Bharat train. Final agreements between Kinet and Indian Railways will soon be signed.
