Kinet Railway Solutions, a leading manufacturer of electric passenger trains, announced the commissioning of the Marathwada Rail Coach Factory (MCRF) in Maharashtra's Latur at an event, marking a major milestone in the ongoing modernisation of the Indian railway network.
"This plant is more than just a manufacturing facility. It is a catalyst for socio-economic development in the region. More than 10,000 people will be involved in the entire production chain," K Sathyamurthy, Managing Director-Latur at Kinet, told the gathering. "By creating employment, supporting ancillary industries, and promoting skill development, we are contributing to the broader vision of 'Viksit Bharat' – a developed India by the centenary of our Independence."
The ceremony marked the beginning of active preparations for the production capabilities of the facility, leading to the commencement of serial assembly of the Vande Bharat sleeper coaches at the 351-acre rail manufacturing unit.
The MCRF had been formally inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March this year.
Under the $6.5 billion contract signed between Kinet and Indian Railways, the company would also upgrade existing government manufacturing facilities and depots to meet global production and maintenance standards.
Further, the MCRF facility would be equipped with 11 advanced assembly stations, internal testing tracks spread over 8.6 kilometre and specialised workshops, including a car body shop, warehouse, assembly, testing, bogie and paint shops.
In addition, the joint venture will adhere to the sustainability criteria.
"It is equipped with a solar power plant and a wastewater treatment plant, helping to reduce its carbon footprint and support India's renewable energy targets. In addition, more than 1,000 trees will be planted on the site by the end of next year," officials said.
Meanwhile, the event was also attended by NSR Prasad, the Chief Administrative Officer at Latur's Integrated Coach Factory (ICF), Neeraj Kumar Dohare, the Divisional Rail Manager (DRM) at Solapur Pradeep Gaur, RVNL's Chief Managing Director (CMD) and Kinet's CEO Alexandra Meluzova.
Kinet Railway Solutions is an Indian manufacturer of electric passenger trains, established to actively participate in the Vande Bharat project in India. Following an international tender, Kinet was selected to manufacture and maintain the Vande Bharat trains.