Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has commenced the supply of semi-high-speed underslung traction transformers for the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train project. The project is being executed by a consortium led by BHEL in association with TRSL. The start of supplies was marked by a flag-off ceremony held at the company’s Jhansi manufacturing facility.
The first set of underslung traction transformers was virtually flagged off by Ms. Bani Varma, Director (Industry Sector & Power), and Shri S. M. Ramanathan, Director (Engineering, Research & Development). These systems form a critical part of the propulsion package for the Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains. Earlier, traction converters for the same project had been dispatched from the Bengaluru unit, reflecting coordinated execution across multiple manufacturing locations.
The traction transformers are designed to support semi-high-speed train operations with an operational speed of up to 160 kmph and a design speed of 180 kmph. Following dispatch from Jhansi, the equipment will be transported to Kolkata, where final assembly of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train sets will be carried out.
In addition to traction transformers, another key propulsion component—the traction motor—has been developed and manufactured at the Bhopal unit. The supply of traction motors further strengthens domestic capabilities across the railway propulsion value chain and contributes to reduced dependence on imports for critical rail equipment.
Separately, the Jhansi unit has also received an order for Rail Borne Maintenance Vehicles (RBMVs). These vehicles fall under the specialized rolling stock segment and are used for railway track construction, inspection, repair, and maintenance. The RBMVs will be designed and manufactured entirely at the Jhansi plant, expanding the facility’s scope beyond conventional rolling stock and rail equipment.
RBMVs play an important role in improving track safety, operational reliability, and ride quality. By reducing manual intervention and enabling precise maintenance activities, these vehicles help extend asset life and improve efficiency in railway operations.
The RBMV order aligns with Government of India initiatives such as Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat, as the project focuses on domestic design and manufacturing. Through continued development of indigenous technologies for locomotives, propulsion systems, and maintenance equipment, BHEL remains a key contributor to India’s railway infrastructure and transportation manufacturing landscape.
Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) is a leading state-owned engineering and manufacturing company in India, specializing in power generation, transmission, and industrial equipment. Founded in 1964, BHEL has played a pivotal role in developing India’s infrastructure, particularly in the energy sector, with capabilities spanning thermal, hydro, nuclear, and renewable power. Known for its extensive portfolio, the company designs, engineers, and manufactures cutting-edge products, including turbines, transformers, boilers, and switchgears.
BHEL is also heavily involved in pioneering energy transition technologies, such as high-voltage transmission systems and renewable energy integration, aligning with India’s goal of achieving sustainable and self-reliant growth.
