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RITES and Indian Railways Accelerate Exports to Global Markets via New FTAs 

Narendra Shah and Editorial Team
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RITES and Indian Railways Accelerate Exports to Global Markets via New FTAs 

NEW DELHI (Metro Rail News): Indian Railways is rapidly expanding its global footprint by exporting metro coaches, locomotives, and specialized railway engineering services. This export boom is heavily supported by a significant increase in private sector participation within the domestic rail ecosystem, alongside newly signed Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with key partner nations. 

Under the proactive “Make in India, Make for the World” initiative, the sector has aggressively transitioned from being a technology importer to a global exporter. This shift reflects India’s vision to grow into an international manufacturing hub, expanding its railway infrastructure footprint to over 16 countries. 

While the primary target markets initially included neighboring countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, India’s railway consulting and export arm, RITES, is now actively pursuing opportunities in South American markets, including Chile, Brazil, and Argentina. 

The Cost-Competitiveness Edge

A major catalyst driving India’s fast-paced expansion into the global railway market is its extreme cost-efficiency. For instance, a standard 16-coach Vande Bharat trainset is roughly 40% cheaper than similar semi-high-speed trainsets manufactured by European conglomerates like Alstom or Siemens. This makes Indian rolling stock an incredibly attractive option for budget-conscious nations seeking modern transit solutions.

Impact of New-Generation FTAs

Speaking on the sidelines of a FICCI seminar on July 8 2026 about Investment Economics in India, Surendra Ahirwar, Executive Director of Traffic Commercial (Rates) at the Railway Board, highlighted the expanding reach of the Indian railway ecosystem as reported by ANI.

Mr.Ahirwar emphasized the positive impact of new-age FTAs, noting that these agreements are designed to do more than just facilitate basic trade. They act as powerful tools for economic integration, paving the way for foreign direct investment (FDI) and integrating Indian manufacturing seamlessly into global supply chains. 

Major Project Milestones 

In June 2026 itself India successfully flagged off its first major locomotive export to the Republic of Guinea from the advanced Marhowra manufacturing plant in Bihar. This forms part of a massive deal to supply 150 heavy-haul evolution-series locomotives to the African nation. Simultaneously, RITES signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a major Middle Eastern rail operator, expanding India’s reach into high-value engineering consultancy and network management in foreign markets.

Also Read: Railways begins land acquisition for Vande Bharat Sleeper Depot in Bengaluru

Railways begins land acquisition for Vande Bharat Sleeper Depot in Bengaluru

Narendra Shah and Editorial Team
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Railways begins land acquisition for Vande Bharat Sleeper Depot in Bengaluru

BENGALURU (Metro Rail News): The South Western Railway (SWR) has begun the land acquisition process for Bengaluru’s Vande Bharat sleeper trains maintenance depot project in Thanisandra, Karnataka. 

Regular and heavy maintenance of Vande Bharat sleeper trains cannot be done at ordinary stations because of their complex systems. The sleeper versions are longer and heavier, requiring more space, longer stabling lines, and larger maintenance facilities. Because these sleeper rakes are being manufactured by ICF (Chennai) and BEML (Bengaluru), a dedicated depot in Bengaluru makes logistical sense. The Thanisandra depot will feature specialized workshops, pits, cranes, and equipment to carry out scheduled maintenance efficiently in the future, acting as the home base for Vande Bharat sleeper trains in South India.

The depot is being built on the Channasandra–Yelahanka railway section near the existing Thanisandra railway station, which is very close to Manyata Tech Park. Another major advantage is its proximity to BEML (Bharat Earth Movers Limited), where many Vande Bharat coaches are manufactured. Additionally, Thanisandra will benefit from the upcoming Heelalige–Rajankunte Corridor of the Bengaluru Suburban Rail Project.

SWR has officially notified plans to acquire 13.95 hectares (approximately 34.48 acres) of land for the depot. While some land around the existing Thanisandra railway station and tracks already belongs to Indian Railways, the project requires additional land from private owners. Consequently, the railways have started the formal acquisition process for 14 private land parcels.

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the ₹270 crore allocation for the Thanisandra Vande Bharat Sleeper maintenance depot during the flag off ceremony of Bengaluru–Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper service in May 2026.

Also Read: India’s First Hydrogen Train gears up for launch on 17th July

India’s First Hydrogen Train gears up for launch on 17th July

Narendra Shah and Editorial Team
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India’s First Hydrogen Train gears up for launch on 17th July

NEW DELHI (Metro Rail News): Taking a major step towards a sustainable and green mode of transportation, Indian Railways is all set to launch its first indigenously built hydrogen train on 17th July. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will flag-off the train in Haryana from Jind Railway Station. A senior Railway officer said that they’ve received the confirmation from the Prime Minister’s Office that the first Hydrogen Train will be flagged off by the Prime Minister on 17th July from Jind. 

After the launch, the train will start its commercial operations, covering 356 km every day and making two 89 km circular trips between Jind and Sonipat. The maintenance depot is situated at Shakurbasti in Delhi. TUV SUD, an independent international testing and certification organisation, carried out the safety and design inspections. 

As per the security protocols, the hydrogen power system will be turned off bringing the train to a “dead” condition, from there a diesel locomotive will shift it to the maintenance facility. The train is equipped with eight passenger coaches consisting of 682 seats and will facilitate around 2,600 passengers.The designed maximum speed of the train is 110 kmph but the operations will be carried out at 75 kmph on the Jind-Sonipat route.

This train features two Driving Power Cars (DPC) positioned at either end of the 10-coach trainset (one at the front and one at the back). The eight passenger coaches are located in the middle. The total traction capacity stands at 2,400 kW (approximately 3,200 hp), as each DPC can generate 1,200 kilowatts (kW) of power (1,600 hp) which will be enough for the train to operate smoothly. At peak capacity the train is expected to use around 300 kg of hydrogen each day. 

The train will be powered by hydrogen fuel cells that convert compressed hydrogen into electricity. This train is designed to store 440 kg of compressed hydrogen. Being highly sustainable and environmentally friendly it only emits water as a byproduct. The commencement of the first hydrogen train will mark a monumental milestone in India’s transition toward zero-emission transportation.

Also Read: India’s first Hydrogen Train began its final high-speed trials today

DMRC enters overseas market with official launch of Delhi Metro International Limited

Narendra Shah and Editorial Team
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DMRC enters overseas market with official launch of Delhi Metro International Limited

DELHI (Metro Rail News): The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has created a fully-owned subsidiary, Delhi Metro International Limited (DMIL), to broaden its global transit consultancy and operations business. The subsidiary was renamed to accommodate a major expansion of its scope and objectives.

DMRC issued a fresh statement highlighting the full activation and global ambitions of DMIL on July 7, 2026. DMIL is now ready to execute projects globally, leveraging DMRC’s proven excellence. This formation allows DMIL to build upon DMRC’s over 20 years of experience managing one of the world’s most esteemed metro systems. It will execute consultancy, project execution, operations and maintenance (O&M), and advisory services for metro, railway, and urban transit projects across India and abroad.

Delhi Metro currently operates a network of more than 416 km with over 300 stations, serving over 6.5 million passengers on a daily basis. It also manages operations and maintenance for metro systems in several other Indian cities, such as Mumbai Metro Line 3, Chennai Metro Phase 2, Patna Metro, Noida-Greater Noida Metro, and Rapid Metro Gurugram. Furthermore, it successfully operates seamless driverless metro operations on Magenta & Pink Lines of the Delhi Metro network, predictive maintenance, and multimodal integration. The launch of this new subsidiary is a strategic move to monetize DMRC’s proven capabilities on a global scale.

This renaming reflects the desire of Indian infrastructure firms to export their engineering and project management skills to global markets, especially in urban transport, where many countries are pouring resources into metro and mass transit projects.

“Building on over two decades of expertise in developing and operating one of the world’s most respected metro systems, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has established Delhi Metro International Limited (DMIL),” the company mentioned in its press release.

Also Read: Kochi Water Metro to connect Airport; feasibility study underway

Kochi Water Metro to connect Airport; feasibility study underway

Narendra Shah and Editorial Team
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Kochi Water Metro to connect Airport; feasibility study underway

KOCHI (Metro Rail News): Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) is planning to expand the water metro network from Aluva Metro Station to Cochin International Airport (CIAL) through the Periyar River. They have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the SCMS Water Institute to assess the feasibility of the proposed metro extension. 

Under the MoU, the institute will serve as a collaborator for the project , providing research and technical support on the feasibility assessment of the project. The institute will conduct various scientific analysis and assessments to test the feasibility of the project.  

Earlier, KMRL issued a tender to conduct a comprehensive topographical assessment of the 4 km route from Aluva to CIAL. 

Significance of the Project

According to KMRL, the project will be a major step towards expanding Kerala’s sustainable urban mobility network. The approximately 4-km water route will cover major locations before reaching the airport. It is expected to link Aswathy Nagar, Naduvannoor, Pattoorkunnu, and Kalady before reaching the airport.

Upon completion, the project will become a major link providing seamless connectivity to the airport via the water metro system. 

About Kochi Water Metro

Kochi Water Metro is India’s first water metro system. It envisions the development of 15 identified routes which will connect 10 islands along a 78 km network. The metro involves a fleet of 78 fast, electrically propelled ferries to provide seamless connectivity between the route. This project intends to enhance connectivity with environment friendly and energy efficient technology.

Also Read: PM Modi dedicates Churu Rail Doubling Projects worth ₹900 crore

PM Modi dedicates Churu Rail Doubling Projects worth ₹900 crore

Narendra Shah and Editorial Team
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PM Modi dedicates Churu Rail Doubling Projects worth ₹900 crore

RAJASTHAN (Metro Rail News): PM Modi virtually dedicated the 58 km Churu–Sadulpur and 46 km Churu–Ratangarh rail-doubling projects on July 4, 2026. He addressed the event from Balotra, Rajasthan. The rail-doubling projects cost around ₹900 crore. Covering a total of 104 km, these projects will boost rail connectivity in northwest Rajasthan improving capacity for passenger and freight transport, reducing congestion, and fostering regional investment and job growth. The live event was the host site for a massive, centralized, state-level development mega-event. During the event, PM Modi launched multiple development projects worth over ₹1 lakh crore across Rajasthan and Gujarat. 

The newly upgraded corridors will allow smoother and more frequent train operations between regions. Several daily express and superfast services operate on this route: the Jodhpur–Delhi Sarai Rohilla Superfast connects Delhi and Rajasthan and the Howrah–Barmer Superfast links West Bengal and Rajasthan, Both trains link the towns of Sadulpur and Churu in about an hour. The main issue before construction was the single-line bottleneck. 

The project started around January 2024. Major civil, track, and related works including the doubling of the 58 km Churu–Sadulpur and 46 km Churu–Ratangarh rail lines are finished. The Railway authority highlighted the project’s benefits for smoother passenger and freight movement.

Also Read: DMRC urges to implement Kerala High Speed Rail Project

DMRC urges to implement Kerala High Speed Rail Project

Narendra Shah and Editorial Team
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DMRC urges to implement Kerala High Speed Rail Project

NEW DELHI (Metro Rail News): Kerala is soon expected to join India’s future bullet train map. An expert committee of 4 members was appointed by UDFC to examine the proposed Thiruvananthapuram-Kannur high-speed rail project based on an interim report prepared by the “Metro Man of India”, E. Sreedharan. The expert committee is led by the secretary, transport (railways), including railway expert J. Vinayan, finance and environment experts, Dr C. Veeramani and Sridhar Radhakrishnan. The report will be submitted this week. 

As stated in a government order issued by the Transport Department, DMRC has prepared and submitted an interim report for the proposed high speed rail project. The Kerala High Speed Rail Project is planned as a 473.20-km standard-gauge corridor connecting Thiruvananthapuram and Kannur. 

DMRC has briefed the Kerala Government about the project implementation plans and urged the state to assign the project to DMRC on a turnkey basis highlighting the successful implementation of the Kochi Metro project. DMRC has assured the state that the project will be completed within five years without delays as the entire line is planned to be constructed fully elevated or underground as mentioned in the interim report, significantly decreasing surface land requirements and minimising local protests. 

The Kerala High Speed Rail Project is expected to link all four airports in Kerala and facilitate public transit to regions with no rail connectivity. A Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) spokesperson said, “Crucially, this line can easily be integrated into the cross-country high-speed network managed by NHSRCL, ensuring that Kerala does not remain isolated from India’s future bullet map”.

The estimated cost of the entire corridor is ₹57,000 crore, with the final completion cost of approximately Rs 60,000 crore. According to DMRC, the project will eventually have the capacity to carry 2.28 lakh passengers a day. The energy requirements of the entire corridor will be completed by captive solar power. The travel fare on this line will be significantly lower as the operational and maintenance cost of this project is expected to be two-third compared to normal railway lines. 

The report also mentions the future plans of extending this line to Kasaragod and developing branch lines connecting Kozhikode and Kalpetta, Pattambi and Palakkad, and Thrissur and Palakkad.

Also Read: Central Railway deploys standard Kavach system on Nagpur Division’s Godhani-Teegaon section

Central Railway deploys standard Kavach system on Nagpur Division’s Godhani-Teegaon section

Narendra Shah and Editorial Team
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Central Railway deploys standard Kavach system on Nagpur Division’s Godhani-Teegaon section

NAGPUR (Metro Rail News): Central Railway has started using the Standard Kavach Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system on the Godhani-Teegaon section of the Nagpur Division. This step will enhance train safety on one of the busiest and most difficult railway routes while lowering the chances of accidents caused by human error.

The Godhani-Teegaon section is part of the busy Itarsi-Nagpur route. This area includes a challenging ghat section with steep slopes, heavy train traffic, and complex operating conditions. Central Railway officials said that Standard Kavach will make operations for passenger and freight trains safer and more efficient along this route.

standard Kavach system

Standard Kavach is a indigenous Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system. It continuously tracks train movement and assists loco pilots during operations. The system can:

  • Monitor train movement continuously
  • Help loco pilots keep to the allowed speed
  • Prevent Signal Passing at Danger (SPAD) incidents
  • Apply brakes automatically when needed to avoid unsafe situations

These features help lower the risk of accidents caused by human error and improve overall train safety.

Importance of this route 

The Godhani-Teegaon section serves many passenger and freight trains each day. The steep grades and tough terrain make train operations more difficult than usual. By introducing Standard Kavach on this section, Central Railway has taken another step towards making train operations safer and more dependable. 

Also Read: Odisha Rail Infra receives dual boost via Amrit Bharat Train & Puri–Koraput Express Launch 

Odisha Rail Infra receives dual boost via Amrit Bharat Train & Puri–Koraput Express Launch 

Narendra Shah and Editorial Team
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Odisha Rail Infra receives dual boost via Amrit Bharat Train & Puri–Koraput Express Launch 

ODISHA (Metro Rail News): Odisha’s industrial and interstate passenger mobility received a significant dual-track upgrade on Monday, 6th June 2026. Chief Minister Mr. Mohan Charan Majhi and Union Railway Minister Mr. Ashwini Vaishnaw jointly flagged off the newly Brahmapur-Udhna (Surat) Amrit Bharat Express, which marks the upgrade of the service from tri-weekly to daily operation, alongside the brand-new, tri-weekly Puri–Koraput Express.

The Brahmapur–Udhna Amrit Bharat Express connects the “Silk City of Odisha,” Brahmapur (Odisha), to Udhna (Gujarat), a major business hub in Western India. The high-profile launches conducted via synchronized events at the Puri and Brahmapur railway stations are designed to directly scale up interstate labor mobility. 

Meanwhile, the intrastate Puri–Koraput Express connects Puri, one of Odisha’s major pilgrimage sites, to Koraput in the state’s western region. While the Brahmapur–Udhna Amrit Bharat Express runs daily, the Puri–Koraput Express operates three times a week.

This dual launch emphasizes safer, more convenient travel and stronger cultural and economic ties between Odisha and Gujarat, crediting central government support under the “Double Engine” framework for a Viksit Odisha (Developed Odisha) and Viksit Bharat (Developed India).

Brahmapur–Udhna daily Amrit Bharat Express: Inter-State economic corridor 

Amrit Bharat Express from Brahmapur(Odisha)-Udhna (Surat),train no -19021/19022 Connects Brahmapur, Silk city of Odisha to Udhna major business hub of Gujarat via other states such as Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Maharashtra. The Brahmapur Amrit Bharat Express operates daily, covering a distance of 1,710 km (1,063 mi) in 30 hours and 15 minutes at an average speed of 56 km/h. The train features a total of 22 coaches, including 11 General Second Class (GS) seating coaches, 8 Sleeper Class (SL) coaches, 2 Second Class-cum-Luggage Vans, and a pantry car, allowing it to accommodate more than 1,800 passengers per trip. It is equipped with modern amenities similar to Vande Bharat standards, such as CCTV cameras in all coaches, fireproof seats, LED display boards, public announcement systems, and ergonomically designed berths. 

The Intra-State anchor: Puri to Koraput Tri-Weekly Express 

The Puri–Koraput Express (Train No. 18407/18408) connects Puri, one of the major pilgrimage sites in Odisha, to Koraput. The tri-weekly train operates three days a week, departing from Puri every Monday, Thursday, and Saturday. The Puri–Koraput Express features 18 coaches across multiple seating tiers, including 1 AC Two-Tier (2A) coach, 3 AC Three-Tier (3A) coach, 8 Sleeper Class (SL) coaches, 4 General Unreserved (GS) coaches, and 1 Second Class-cum-Luggage Brake Van and 1 Driving-friendly Second Class-Cum Luggage coach. The official capacity of the train is 1,834 passengers per single trip. 

During the function, Union Railway Minister Mr. Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that Brahmapur Railway Station will be redeveloped into a world-class facility under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme at an estimated cost of approximately ₹300 crore. The transformed station will feature state-of-the-art passenger amenities, contemporary architecture, enhanced accessibility, and seamless multimodal integration, positioning it as a landmark gateway for southern Odisha.The minister also inspected the ongoing redevelopment of Puri Railway Station under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme and reviewed comprehensive preparedness for the ongoing Rath Yatra.  He informed that Indian Railways has scheduled the operation of over 300 Special Trains during Rath Yatra, established holding areas for more than 30,000 devotees, augmented ticketing counters, strengthened food distribution mechanisms, and enhanced safety and passenger amenities to ensure a seamless pilgrimage experience.

Also Read: MRVC invites bids for electrification work in Borivali-Virar Section of Western Railways

MRVC invites bids for electrification work in Borivali-Virar Section of Western Railways

Narendra Shah and Editorial Team
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MRVC invites bids for electrification work in Borivali-Virar Section of Western Railways

MUMBAI (Metro Rail News): Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation (MRVC) floated a tender for electrification works between Borivali-Virar Section of Western Railways. The work includes the proposed lines 5th and 6th between Borivali-Virar Section of the Mumbai sub-urban railway covering 26 Route Kilometers (RKm). 

Tender Details

Opening Date31 July 2026 (12:00 Hours)
Closing Date07 August 2026 (15:00 Hours)
RFB NoMRVC/W/244 
Bid Security Amount₹2,90,80,200
Contract Duration36 months

Scope of Work

The chosen contractor will Design, Supply, Fabrication, Erection, Testing and Commissioning of 1×25 kV OHE Works in connection with proposed 5th & 6th lines Between Borivali-Virar Section (26 RKM and Approximate 115 TKM) of Western Railway, Including EMU Stabling Sidings, Supply of OHE Spares and T&P Items under Mumbai Urban Transport Project (MUTP)-3A.

About the Project

The Mumbai Urban Transport Project (MUTP)- 3A is a project introduced to improve the connectivity of the Mumbai sub-urban area. It is expected that this project will meet the future demands of passengers. A total amount of ₹33,690 has been sanctioned for this project.

Also Read: In-Train Audio Ads to boost non-fare revenue of Delhi Metro

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