Diesel Locomotive Works (DLW) here has manufactured a 12,000-HP electric locomotive by combining two diesel locos, a first of its kind in the world. The feat comes soon after the premier manufacturing agency successfully created history recently by converting two old diesel locomotives into a 10,000 HP electric locomotive.

DLW spokesperson on Monday claimed that the newly converted high- horse power engine, first of its kind in the world, has been sent to the Tughlakabad electric loco shed for testing.

This freight engine has been designed for 105-km/hour speed and weighs 252 tons. It is equipped with three-phase induction motor, four power convertors and regenerative as well as pneumatic braking system,” said chief public relations officer of DLW. He added that two WDG-4 (diesel) locomotives of 4000 HP have been combined and converted into one 12,000 HP WAG-11 electric engine.

According to him, the DLW achieved this challenging feat with the help of engineers from Research Designs and Standards Organization and Chittaranjan Locomotive Works.

Considering the large number of diesel locomotives in Indian railways, this is a welcome move towards reducing reliance on fossil fuel and a major step towards green transportation.

Source: TOI