Patna: A milestone in India’s railway modernisation has emerged from a quiet corner of Bihar. The 12,000-horsepower electric locomotive produced at the Madhepura factory—one of the most powerful in the world—has entered passenger service for the first time, marking a significant shift in the country’s rail capability.
The locomotive, developed under the government’s Make in India programme in partnership with French firm Alstom, began hauling the Rajya Rani Express on the Saharsa–Samastipur–Patna route this month. Railway officials say the same engine class will soon be deployed on premier long-distance trains, including the Rajdhani Express and Sampoorna Kranti.
The Madhepura Electric Locomotive Factory, inaugurated by Narendra Modi in 2018 after construction began in 2015, was conceived as a cornerstone of India’s technological self-reliance. Until now, the 12,000 HP locomotives produced here were used exclusively for freight movement, capable of hauling 6,000-tonne loads at 100 km/h on the Dedicated Freight Corridor.
Every journey begins with a purpose, and some journeys go on to make a nation proud.
The #WAG12B, #India’s most powerful electric locomotive built in #Madhepura, #Bihar, was designed to drive the country’s vision of rail electrification. pic.twitter.com/7WUxGWezTW— Alstom India (@AlstomIndia) November 3, 2025
Following technical upgrades and successful trials, the engines have now been certified for passenger operations. With a top speed of 120 km/h and an advanced three-phase propulsion system designed to improve energy efficiency, the locomotive is expected to enhance train punctuality, hauling capacity and environmental performance.
Railway engineers describe the development as “transformational”, arguing that a locomotive built for heavy freight and steep gradients now powering express trains reflects a leap in domestic capability. The factory can produce around 100 locomotives annually, and is already influencing the design culture at other production units such as the Banaras Locomotive Works.
A shining example of PM @NarendraModi ji’s commitment to Make in India, Railways operationalises its most powerful 12,000 HP Locomotive Engine.
Built in Madhepura, Bihar, the powerful loco comes with state-of-the-art features for faster & safer freight movement. pic.twitter.com/caRYFA2Z2O
— Piyush Goyal Office (@PiyushGoyalOffc) May 20, 2020
Experts say the Madhepura model is set to enter international markets as well, with Alstom preparing to adapt the Indian experience abroad.
For Madhepura, a town long associated with underdevelopment, the factory has become a symbol of possibility. For the railways, it is a signal that high-end engineering—once imported—can now be designed, built and deployed within India.
