By: Staff Writer
June 03, Colombo (LNW): India is sending 22 powerful WDM3D Alco-class diesel locomotives to Sri Lanka, offering a much-needed lifeline to the crisis-hit Sri Lanka Railways (SLR).
Among the 32 locomotives identified for export, five come from Mumbai, including four from the Kurla Diesel Loco Shed and one from Kalyan.
This move follows an official request from the Sri Lankan government and represents a significant act of regional cooperation and goodwill.
These WDM3D locomotives, developed by Banaras Locomotive Works in 2003 and produced until 2016, have been the backbone of Indian Railways for decades, especially on routes like the Konkan Railway prior to electrification.
With a robust 3300-horsepower diesel-electric engine and their iconic chugging sound, the Alco-class units are beloved by rail enthusiasts and valued for their durability and performance.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) approved the transfer via the Railway Board’s infrastructure directorate. “
The locomotives are being dispatched in excellent working condition,” an official confirmed. India has previously shared similar locomotives with countries like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, underscoring its commitment to regional support through rail diplomacy.
This timely donation comes as Sri Lanka Railways grapples with aging infrastructure, reduced service reliability, and chronic financial losses.
According to Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Transport, the railway department recorded losses exceeding LKR 14 billion in 2023 alone. A lack of new rolling stock and years of underinvestment have led to increased breakdowns, delays, and commuter dissatisfaction.
As of 2024, Sri Lanka Railways operates a fleet of over 300 locomotives, but more than 40% are inoperable due to technical issues and lack of spare parts.
The majority of the active fleet is decades old, some dating back to the 1970s. These aging engines consume excessive fuel and are often unable to meet the demands of daily commuter and freight services.
Transport experts suggest that India’s contribution could help fill the operational gaps, especially for long-distance and freight services.
However, they warn that without systemic reforms—such as improved maintenance regimes, staff training, and investment in infrastructure—the benefits of the new locomotives may be short-lived.
Nevertheless, this gesture not only symbolizes India’s support for Sri Lanka during economic hardship but also highlights the strategic importance of railways in regional connectivity and trade. With the right strategic planning, these locomotives could be the first step in modernizing Sri Lanka Railways and restoring public confidence in the island’s vital transportation network
