New Delhi (Metro Rail News): In a major boost to India’s “Make in India” initiative, RITES Ltd. (formerly Rail India Technical and Economic Service Limited) has inked a pact with Bangladesh Railways. Under this pact, RITES will be responsible for supplying 200 broad gauge passenger coaches to Bangladesh at Rs 915 crore.
Additionally, RITES will also provide prowess in design, spare parts support and training for the same. The contract is slated to be executed in 36 months followed by a 24-month warranty.
Funding of project
European Investment Bank will facilitate the funding of this project through a global competitive bidding process.
RITES’ collaborations with Bangladesh Railways
This contract aligns with the “Make In India” initiative of the Government of India as it encourages the export of indigenously made rolling stock. Previously RITES had delivered 120 broad gauge passenger carriages, 36 broad gauge locomotives and 10-meter gauge locomotives to Bangladesh Railways.
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Previous Developments
On November 1st, 2023, Prime Ministers Narendra Modi of India and Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh took a crucial step forward in regional connectivity by inaugurating three key infrastructure projects. The three projects were:
- Akhaura – Agartala Cross-Border Rail Link
- Khulna – Mongla Port Rail Line and
- Unit – II of the Maitree Super Thermal Power Plant.
The centrepiece of the inauguration was the Akhaura-Agartala Cross-Border Rail Link. This 12.24-kilometer rail line, built with a grant of ₹392.52 crore from the Indian government, establishes the first direct and shortest rail connection between India’s northeastern state of Tripura and Bangladesh.