Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd (TRSL) has announced its entry into the forged wheel manufacturing sector through a joint venture with Ramkrishna Forgings. The move is aimed at tackling persistent supply shortages that have hindered railway production in India, a company official said on Tuesday.
This strategic expansion is expected to support TRSL’s Freight Rolling Stock operations, which recorded a 5.6% increase in consolidated revenue to ₹3,610 crore for FY25. The initiative aligns with the government’s push for self-sufficiency in manufacturing under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ programme.
TRSL’s freight division had targeted stable monthly production of 950 to 1,000 wagons, but this goal was disrupted over the past two quarters due to a shortfall in wheelset availability. The shortage was largely attributed to constraints at the Rail Wheel Factory in Bangalore, the designated supplier under railway contracts. Production levels at the factory are expected to recover by June, helping to restore the supply chain, the official added.
“One of the key milestones for us this year has been our entry into wheel manufacturing,” said Umesh Chowdhary, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of TRSL. “This is both a business opportunity and a national responsibility. It’s time to end dependence on imports.”
India has long relied on forged wheel imports from countries like China, Ukraine, and Russia. However, global supply challenges—driven by geopolitical tensions and logistical disruptions—have highlighted the need for stronger domestic capacity. Mr Chowdhary further noted, “We’re not only setting up a facility to serve local needs. We’re also positioning ourselves as a future exporter of forged wheels.”
The company’s current order book stands at ₹24,526 crore, offering revenue visibility for more than three years. Management views this move as a strategic step in backward integration, which will help TRSL better manage costs, ensure product quality, and meet delivery schedules.
The new forged wheels plant is scheduled to begin operations in the next financial year. Initial customers will include Indian Railways, metro systems, and in-house rolling stock projects. Industry estimates suggest that India requires over two million railway wheels annually. However, domestic capacity has not kept pace, leading to continued reliance on foreign suppliers. Recent efforts to boost local production aim to reduce this gap and provide greater supply chain resilience in the face of global uncertainties.
In addition to manufacturing, TRSL is focusing on technology upgrades, exports, and electric propulsion systems in collaboration with ABB. The company recently completed deliveries for the Pune Metro project and is looking to expand its role in upcoming transport infrastructure projects.
Titagarh Rail Systems is a prominent provider of comprehensive mobility solutions with manufacturing facilities in India and Italy. The company specializes in passenger and freight rolling stock, including semi-high-speed trains, metros, passenger coaches, propulsion systems, and a range of specialized wagons. With a focus on innovation and excellence, Titagarh is dedicated to shaping the future of transportation and contributing to India’s “Make in India” initiative.
