Indian Railways Accelerates Forged Wheel Production for High-Speed Train Projects

Indian Railways is ramping up forged wheel production to meet rising demand for high-speed trains. These efforts align with the government’s “Make in India” initiative to boost local manufacturing. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Indian Railways Targets Self-Reliance in Forged Wheel Supply

With the launch of new high-speed trains, Indian Railways foresees a significant increase in forged wheel requirements. By 2026, annual demand could climb to 200,000 units, up from the current capacity of 40,000. Presently, the Railways relies heavily on imports from countries like China, Ukraine, and Russia. However, geopolitical challenges such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict have disrupted supply chains. In 2024-25 alone, the Railways spent ₹900 crore on forged wheel imports to meet its needs.

Don’t miss…High-Quality Seals for Windows and Doors by KYIVGUMA

For decades, India has depended on international suppliers for forged wheels. Major exporters include China, the UK, the Czech Republic, Japan, and Brazil. The Railways began importing forged wheels as early as 1960, with global manufacturers meeting the demand for locomotive and coaching stock components. However, the push for domestic production now aims to eliminate this dependency by creating a robust local supply chain.

Domestic production is expanding to address this gap. A newly established plant in Tamil Nadu, visited by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, will meet local needs while enabling exports. According to the minister, this facility is set to rank among the top three forged wheel plants globally. The plant’s operations will also enhance India’s ability to support international markets with high-quality rail components.

Indian Railways Invests in Infrastructure to Meet Demand

To further reduce reliance on imports, Indian Railways is scaling up production capabilities across the country. The Raebareli plant currently produces 21,000 wheels annually, while Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) contributes an additional 40,000 units. However, these figures are far from sufficient to meet the growing demand. A new facility is planned with a production capacity of 80,000 wheels per year, ensuring a consistent supply for future rail projects.

Forged wheels are critical for high-speed trains due to their enhanced strength and durability compared to cast wheels. These wheels are crafted under high pressure, eliminating flaws and increasing longevity. This makes them essential for the smooth operation of high-speed trains across India.

The government’s focus on “Make in India” plays a pivotal role in reducing dependency on imports while promoting self-reliance. By bolstering local manufacturing capabilities, Indian Railways aims to create a sustainable supply chain that supports the nation’s growing rail infrastructure. This approach not only enhances operational efficiency but also boosts the domestic economy by creating jobs and fostering innovation.

Future of Indian Railways and Forged Wheel Production

The Indian Railways’ ambitious plans for high-speed trains highlight the urgency of scaling up forged wheel production. As demand continues to rise, investing in advanced manufacturing technologies and local partnerships will be critical. Officials have emphasized the importance of collaborating with private sector experts to ensure timely delivery and high-quality output.

In addition to catering to domestic demand, Indian Railways sees opportunities to export forged wheels to other countries. This move will strengthen India’s position as a global leader in rail infrastructure development. By meeting international standards, Indian manufacturers can tap into lucrative markets and establish long-term partnerships worldwide.

The Railways’ proactive steps to enhance infrastructure and production capabilities reflect a long-term vision for self-reliance. Forged wheels, being a critical component of high-speed train operations, represent a cornerstone of this vision. As several high-speed rail corridors near completion, ensuring a steady supply of these wheels will be vital for seamless operations.

By focusing on reducing imports from countries like China and Russia, Indian Railways is reinforcing its commitment to becoming self-sufficient in key manufacturing sectors. This shift not only strengthens the domestic economy but also ensures the Railways is well-prepared to meet future infrastructure challenges.

Source: www.msn.com

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed:

Don’t miss…Transatlantic Tunnel: The Future of 60-Minute Travel Across the Atlantic